HC Deb 08 November 1949 vol 469 cc1047-8
32. Mr. Hurd

asked the Secretary of State for War how many National Service men under the age of 19 have been posted to the Far East during the past six months; what is the minimum period of jungle training in Malaya they are given before being sent into action; and how many of these young soldiers have been rejected during the jungle training course.

The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Shinwell)

During the six months prior to 30th September, 1949, some 1,600 National Service men who had been called up since 1st January, 1949, were posted to the Far East. Most of these men were under 19 years of age. In the same period a considrable number of National Service men called up during 1948 were also posted to the Far East, but I am unable to say how many of them were under 19.

As far as is possible, before being sent out on operations, reinforcements arriving in the Far East spend a suitable period in the Command, usually about four weeks, in order that they may become accustomed to the climate and trained in the jobs they are likely to do in jungle operations. No details are available of any rejections during jungle training.

Mr. Hurd

Does the Minister really consider that this makes for an efficient use of manpower—only four weeks training for jungle fighting—or that it is worthy of Britain to send these half-trained lads to fight Communist guerrillas in Malaya?

Mr. Shinwell

We are advised by our people in the theatre that these men are very efficient.

Mr. Francis Noel-Baker

May I put two points to my right hon. Friend? Is he aware that what is officially described as jungle training, is in fact very much like active participation in operations, and does he really consider that an 18 year old boy, after 16 weeks on Salisbury Plain and then four weeks in camp in Malaya, is adequately trained for this type of work?

Mr. Shinwell

It is the best we can do in present circumstances. We have gone into this matter very carefully and we are advised by the commander on the spot that it is working out very well on the whole.

Earl Winterton

Will the right hon. Gentleman make it clear to this House and to the world that these Malayan forces have fought magnificently and in accordance with the best traditions of the British Army?

Mr. Shinwell

I can certainly endorse what the noble Lord has said.