HC Deb 15 May 1956 vol 552 cc1826-7
53. Mr. Stokes

asked the Secretary of State for War what appointment has recently been assigned to Lieut.-General Sir Richard Hull; and the terms of reference relating to his examination of the possible date of termination of National Service.

Mr. F. Maclean

I gave the terms of reference of the Committee of which General Hull is Chairman in reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Leicester, North-;West (Mr. Janner) last Tuesday.

Mr. Stokes

While everybody recognises the great ability of General Hull, may I ask the Under-Secretary whether he will call his attention particularly to the latter part of his terms of reference about the extent to which civilians and outside organisations can be used? If he makes a good report, at least we may get corresponding action by the other Services which will speedily lead to the abolition of National Service.

Mr. Maclean

I think that we can count on General Hull to read his terms of reference with due care.

Mr. Allaun

Does not the Under-Secretary feel that this morning's news from Russia of a cut of 1,200,000 men strengthens the reasons for entirely abolishing conscription in this country?

Mr. Stokes

I do not think that it makes the slightest difference.