HC Deb 16 January 1945 vol 407 c7
10. Mr. Quintin Hogg

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in order to minimise the period of overseas service in the Army, he will cause a review to be made of all war establishments in non-operational commands.

Sir J. Grigg

This process has been going on for many months. This is being intensified in consequence of the announcement made on 22nd December. The primary object of the process is, however, to produce men to sustain the units and formations in contact with the enemy and it is, I fear, unlikely that it will have a material effect on the Python scheme, at any rate for the time being.

Mr. Hogg

Will care be taken to prevent a recurrence of what happened in one case, where, within three months, the reduction in the non-operational staff has been more than made up by the same Command?

Sir J. Grigg

I would rather like to have information about the Command in which it happened.

Mr. Hogg

I will give it to the right hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Turton

Is a special effort being made to cut down the establishment in non-operational theatres in the Middle East?

Sir J. Grigg

That is really the only large non-operational theatre, so that, obviously, my answer applies to establishments there.