HC Deb 13 July 1943 vol 391 cc6-7
15. Viscount Hinchingbrooke

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is satisfied that the efforts of recruiting authorities to attract young volunteers with promises of continuation of training in their present trades are not being frustrated by the drafting of such recruits to non-technical arms subsequent to enlistment?

Sir J. Grigg

On enlistment all young soldiers sign a certificate in which they express a preference for a particular regiment or corps. But this certificate includes the words:

I realise, however, that such may not be in the interests of the Service and may not therefore be possible. Generally speaking, they are not diverted from the arm of their choice unless they are urgently needed elsewhere.