§ 17. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for War if he will make a statement summarising the improvements he has introduced into the Army since he took office.
§ Mr. SwinglerWhile taking this opportunity to thank the Minister for the personal apology he sent me for the unfounded allegation he made last week, may I ask him if he is aware that we are disappointed that he is not able to state that he has fulfilled his promise to introduce higher pay for the Forces since he took office? Further, is he aware that this presents him with an opportunity of paying tribute to the Opposition for the assistance they have given him, for example, with regard to the reform of the Army Act, in trying to bring about improvements in the Army during the past year?
§ Mr. HeadThe hon. Gentleman has not exactly held out an olive branch. I have never suggested that, since the last Government put up pay, there should be a marked additional increase in pay. Secondly, I would point out to the hon. Gentleman that since this Government have been in office we have saved 10,000 men from the tail, created seven new battalions and doubled Regular recruiting.
Commander MaitlandIs it not a fact that considerably more men have volunteered for the Army since the present Government have been in power, and does not that mean that very considerable improvements have been made?
Brigadier ClarkeIs my right hon. Friend aware that the Army is very appreciative of the great benefits received since he came into his present office?
§ Mr. ShinwellBefore the right hon. Gentleman replies on the subject of improvements in Regular recruitment, will he be good enough to give the figure of the number of men who have joined on short service engagements?
§ Mr. HeadEvery man who joins the Army now, or who has done so since the scheme was introduced soon after this Government came into office, joins it on a short service engagement.