3. Mr. Vaneasked the Secretary of State for War why the well-known term, "Drill Hall," has been superseded by a new title, "T.A. Centre"; and what is the advantage, military or otherwise, to be derived from the change.
§ Mr. ShinwellDrill forms only a small part of the modern soldier's training. I think that the new name more accurately describes the purpose which the centres are intended in future to fulfil.
Mr. VaneIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this will certainly add to the confusion? Territorial headquarters have been affectionately known as drill halls for a very long time and will continue so to be known.
§ Mr. ShinwellThere is no confusion whatever, except in the mind of the hon. Member. The fact is that much more than training is carried out in these territorial centres. We have to store equipment there, and besides, we hope that these centres will be the hub of social activities associated with the Territorial Army.
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that these 726 places always have been the hub of social activities associated with the Territorial Army?
§ Mr. ShinwellBut the social activities that we have in mind are very much better social activities.
§ Sir Harvie WattIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, whatever these drill halls may be called officially, they will always be known by the Territorials as drill halls?
§ Mr. Emrys HughesIs not this a case of a rose by any other name smelling just as sweet?
§ Mr. ShinwellAs long as it is sweet, it does not matter.
Mr. VaneCan the right hon. Gentleman say how often he has been in a drill hall in his own constituency for social activities or otherwise?
§ Mr. ShinwellIn fact, I have been in the drill hall at Seaham Harbour several times, but I do not know what that has to do with the Question.