HC Deb 10 March 1949 vol 462 c1587

Motion made, and Question proposed, That a sum, not exceeding £94,250,000, be granted to His Majesty, to defray the expense of the pay, &c., of the Army, which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March 1950."—(Mr. Shinwell.)

Mr. Low

I want to ask a very short question. Vote 1 includes provision for short service engagements. We are told in the Estimates this scheme is now terminating. This is the first time we have been told that. It is a very important announcement. It affects a number of Regular and non-National Service men in the Army about which we are particularly interested. I would just like a statement from the Parliamentary Secretary as to whether this is so or whether it is a mistake.

Mr. Stewart

No. It is not a mistake. The scheme was not intended to be a permanent measure. I think the hon. Member is right when he says that publicity has not been given to it before, but there is no error in the matter. The thing is as described in the Estimates.