§ 6. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that many Territorial units are short of clothing and equipment; and, in view of the large surpluses left over from the war, if he will see that the Territorial Army is fully equipped before disposing of these surpluses.
§ Mr. ShinwellA complete set of personal clothing and equipment is issued to Territorial and Auxiliary Forces Associations for each recruit and except for a temporary shortage of battledress in certain smaller sizes there has been no difficulty in meeting the demands of Associations. Owing to the very heavy strain which is imposed on the Army's repair capacity there is a temporary shortage of certain technical stores in a fully serviceable condition, particularly some kinds of anti-aircraft equipment. There is also a shortage of certain vehicles. Repairable equipments and vehicles of the types in short supply are being overhauled on a high priority to meet the outstanding demands of the Territorial Army. The needs of the Territorial Army are taken into consideration before any equipment is declared surplus.
§ Sir W. SmithersHow can the right hon. Gentleman expect an enthusiastic response to the recruitment campaign for the Territorial Army if it is not given the fullest encouragement by way of receiving the equipment and clothing it desires? If I send him some special cases, will he look into them?
§ Mr. ShinwellI shall be glad to have any information which the hon. Gentleman has in his possession, but I am not aware of any lack of enthusiasm in the Territorial Army.
§ Mr. Cecil PooleWill my right hon. Friend see that the Territorial Army is not called upon to fight the next war with the left off equipment of the last war?
§ Sir Ralph GlynWill the right hon. Gentleman give special attention to buildings and accommodation at the present time?
§ Mr. ShinwellWe are giving a great deal of attention to the matter of buildings, but it is not an easy problem to solve.