HC Deb 04 June 1957 vol 571 cc1049-50
3. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in the Army pamphlet issued to parents about educational facilities available to National Service men, he will insert a note as to what branches of the Service are available for those wishing to pursue a particular type of education; and whether advice about educational facilities can be offered to all recruits when they are called up for service.

Mr. J. Amery

I am grateful for my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion. I will consider it. subject of course to the reservation that we cannot always post National Service men to the anti of the Service of their choice.

In answer to the second part of the Question, it is the duty of education officers, who are on the staff of every basic training unit, to advise recruits about educational facilities.

Information is also contained in pamphlets issued before or during call-up.

6. Mr. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will arrange for greater encouragement and assistance to be given to National Service men who wish to pursue their further education during their period of service in the Army; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. J. Amery

National Service men are encouraged and helped to continue their education while they are in the Army. I cannot at Question Time describe the full range of what is available, but it is based upon classroom teaching by the Royal Army Educational Corps supplemented by a number of schemes to meet the special needs of individuals.

My right hon. Friend is most anxious that National Service men should make the best use of these facilities, and to supplement the existing information about what is available a new pamphlet is being printed for the use of headmasters, employers and the National Service men themselves.

Mr. Gower

Would my hon. Friend reexamine the facilities available to National Service men who wish to take professional examinations, and now that fewer men are liable to call up for National Service would he not deem it appropriate, possibly, to extend this service?

Mr. Amery

If my hon. Friend would like to make any detailed suggestions. I should, of course, he very glad to receive them.