§ 21. Sir Reginald Clarryasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is satisfied that the number of women joining the Auxiliary Territorial Service as volunteers during the past few months justify the money expended on special showrooms and offices; and whether he can conveniently state the approximate cost per volunteer?
§ Sir J. GriggFor the reason given to my hon. Friend on nth February, I regret that it is not possible to state the cost per volunteer, but the numbers of volunteers presenting themselves for enrolment is most satisfactory, and these special arrangements are at least partly responsible for this state of affairs.
§ Sir R. ClarryIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that the expenditure incurred is worth while?
§ Sir J. GriggSo far as the past is concerned, yes, but I think the time may well have come when the matter should be reconsidered for the future, and that I will do.
§ Sir R. ClarryHas my right hon. Friend any figures of the cost per capita, per volunteer?
§ Sir J. GriggI have answered that question.
§ 23. Mr. Thorneasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the case of a young girl belonging to the Auxiliary Territorial Service, by the name of Private Stannard, who saved the life of one of her companions, Private Davies, who fell into a river; and whether the girl will be commended for her courage?
§ Sir J. GriggYes, Sir. My attention has been called to Private Stannard's gallant action. My hon. Friend will be glad to know that she has been officially commended by the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief in Western Command orders and that the Royal Humane Society have awarded her the Society's testimonial on parchment.