HC Deb 24 January 1956 vol 548 cc18-9
24. Mr. Ian Harvey

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will make a statement with regard to the development and progress of Welbeck College.

Mr. Head

Welbeck College continues to make steady progress. The first entry to the College went on to the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, last September and have now completed their initial training in the Basic Training Wing. Applications for entry continue to be good. For entry in September we have received 130 applications to fill forty-eight vacancies.

Mr. Harvey

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the progress of this College reflects great credit on all concerned, and will he give an assurance that proposals for expanding its scope will receive favourable consideration?

Mr. Head

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

Does the right hon. Gentleman recall that when the College was projected it was intended to have specific reference to the intake of Northern England and Scottish students? Will the Minister say to what extent progress has been made in the realisation of that aim?

Mr. Head

I am at one with the hon. Gentleman, because the more we get from the North of England and Scotland the better pleased we are. The numbers coming from those areas have been going up gradually, but if the hon. Gentleman can do anything to help us, we shall be much obliged.