HC Deb 13 July 1948 vol 453 cc982-3
5. Mr. Collins

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is satisfied that after the period of initial training the schedule of training and duties for National Service personnel is sufficient to keep them reasonably busy, and that the present scale of recreational and educational facilities is adequate.

Mr. Shinwell

The training and duties to be carried out by National Service men should keep them fully occupied; adequate facilities exist for education and for recreation during leisure hours.

Mr. Collins

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are many instances of young men in National Service who feel they are not fully occupied and are subject to a great feeling of frustration? Will he look into this to see whether these facilities can be improved?

Mr. Shinwell

If my hon. Friend can give me some details of any man not getting enough to do, I will certainly try to find him sufficient to do.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is the Minister aware that Captain Liddell Hart recently expressed the view that the Army is too large, and will he take this into consideration and advise the Government accordingly?

Mr. Shinwell

The gentleman referred to is not original, because my hon. Friend has held those views for many years.