HC Deb 03 May 1950 vol 474 cc1681-2
37. Mr. C. S. Taylor

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, in view of the assistance already granted with regard to the provision of training and headquarter accommodation to the Army Cadet Force and the Air Training Corps in Eastbourne, his Department is now prepared to give financial help in these matters to the Sea Cadets in that town.

Mr. W. Edwards

Unlike the Army Cadet Force and the Air Training Corps which are pre-service training organisations entirely controlled by the War Office and Air Ministry, the Sea Cadet Corps is a voluntary youth organisation jointly controlled by the Admiralty and the Navy League. The Admiralty is responsible for the professional training of the Corps and for limited financial assistance. The Eastbourne Unit has received help in respect of overhead expenses, stores for training purposes and uniforms. I am sorry that more cannot be done.

Mr. Taylor

I appreciate the difference between the three cadet forces of the Services, but will the hon. Gentleman agree that it would be reasonable to expect the Admiralty to pay the rent for the accommodation which is so badly needed by the Sea Cadet Corps?

Mr. Edwards

We cannot accept that. The Eastbourne unit is being treated in precisely the same way as other units in the country, which, somehow, manage to find the rent.

Mr. Taylor

In view of the splendid work which the Cadet Force is doing, is it not time that the Admiralty agreed to pay all the accommodation charges for the Force?

Mr. Edwards

No, Sir.

Mr. Taylor

I beg to give notice that in view of the unsatisfactory answer which I have received I will raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.