§ 47. Mr. T. Reidasked the Minister of Defence what progress is being made in the recruitment of Regulars for the Services.
§ The Minister of Defence (Mr. Shinwell)The latest available figures which are given in full in the Quarterly Statement of Recruiting, which has been placed in the Vote Office, show a slight improvement. A total of 11,880 men were enlisted in all three Services during the first quarter of 1950 as compared with 9,454 in the previous three months. This is by no means sufficient for our needs and, as the House knows, we are engaged on a comprehensive examination of life in the Services in all its aspects in relation to the current problems of regular manpower recruitment and re-engagement.
§ Brigadier HeadWould the Minister say whether this slight improvement takes into account the additional and increased wastage which has been going on in the Regular Forces during the last year?
§ Mr. ShinwellI cannot say offhand, but I am not satisfied with the rate of recruitment.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreWould not the security of a job and a house on discharge be the best method of recruitment?
§ Mr. ShinwellNo doubt they would have a beneficial effect, but we cannot give guarantees which could not be implemented.
§ Sir T. MooreWhat about the nationalised industries?
§ Squadron-Leader BurdenIs not the Minister aware that a great many men may go into the Forces immediately pay and allowances have been reviewed? Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that this is a matter of great importance, and should be tackled at the earliest moment?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am not concerned with what the hon. Member thinks; it is the facts with which we are concerned.