HC Deb 06 February 1957 vol 564 cc442-3
52 and 53. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Defence (1) what changes in Her Majesty's Government's military commitments are contemplated as a result of recent discussions within the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation;

(2) if he will make a statement on the results of Her Majesty's Government's review of defence policy.

57. Mr. Wigg

asked the Minister of Defence whether he will make a statement about the future training and organisation of the Reserve forces of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force.

The Minister of Defence (Mr. Duncan Sandys)

I am at present reviewing the size and organisation of our Armed Forces. Until my studies are more advanced I would not like to make any statement on these matters.

Mr. Swingler

Is it not a fact that the review has been going on for some time by the previous Government and by the present Minister? Though I appreciate the present Minister's difficult position, can he not answer Question No. 52, which asks what changes in commitments are contemplated? Is it not possible for the Minister to give an answer to that Question? Are any changes contemplated? If so, in view of the speculation in the Press, what do they refer to?

Mr. Sandys

That is obviously a very important part of the whole picture.

Mr. Wigg

Surely the right hon. Gentleman must still depend upon the volunteer, particularly in the Territorial Army, and is not this continued delay of the Government in making known their intentions a direct discouragement to volunteer? [HON. MEMBERS: "Answer."] On a point of order. If the right hon. Gentleman is not going to answer my supplementary, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.

Mr. Sandys

There is a Question about recruitment later.