HC Deb 29 July 1947 vol 441 cc246-7
37. Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will make a statement upon the future role and conditions of service of the Senior Training Corps in amplification of the Government's policy upon the future of the Cadet Forces.

Mr. Bellenger

I am not yet in a position to make a statement about the future of the Senior Training Corps, but I hope that an announcement will be made in the near future.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have been pressing for this information for over a year? We have been told at varying times to await decisions about compulsory military service, liability for auxiliary service, and the future of the Territorial Army. As all these things have now been decided, when can we expect a decision on this matter?

Mr. Bellenger

To a certain extent it bears on the composition of those at the universities. At present, most of them have no need for any further training, as they are ex-Service men, and a decision is not so urgent as it would appear to be. Within the next year, according to the composition of the university students, we shall make a decision.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Will my right hon. Friend see that their service does not compete with the academic years?

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