§ 2. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for War the monthly rate of wastage of men on Regular engagements during the first six months of 1947.
§ Mr. J. FreemanApproximately 600, Sir.
§ 3. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for War the total number of men on normal Regular engagements in the Army at 31st March and 30th June, 1947, by comparison with 31st December, 1946.
§ Mr. J. FreemanThe approximate totals were at 31st December, 1946, 99,600, at 31st March, 1947, 103,100 and at 31st May, 1947, 108,100. Figures for 30th June, 1947, are not yet available.
§ Mr. SwinglerIn view of this decline in the Regular content of the Armed Forces will my hon. Friend say whether he is satisfied with the present rate of recruitment, and whether consideration is being given to speeding up demobilisation in view of the reduction in the term of Service?
§ Mr. FreemanThe two issues are quite separate. I am not satisfied with the rate of recruitment, and will welcome my hon. Friend's help in increasing it. As to the Regular content of the Army I draw my hon. Friend's attention to the figures which I have given which show an increasing content.