HC Deb 17 November 1954 vol 533 cc393-4
45. Mr. de Freitas

asked the Minister of Defence when he last held an inquiry into the use being made of National Service men in the Armed Forces, with a view to reducing the present period of two years.

Mr. H. Macmillan

This matter is continually engaging the attention of my Service colleagues and myself.

Mr. de Freitas

Can the Minister assure the House that the fact that we have committed four divisions and a tactical Air Force to the Continent will in no way deter him from seeking to reduce the period of two years?

Mr. Macmillan

This is a pact which, like all other considerations, must be taken into account in fixing the term of our National Service.