HC Deb 11 February 1959 vol 599 cc1172-3
33. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Minister of Defence if he will state the latest available figures of recruitment for the Forces.

Mr. Sandys

Since the answer contains a table of figures, I will with permission, circulate it with the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Shinwell

Can the right hon. Gentleman indicate whether there has been some improvement in the position?

Mr. Sandys

There has been some improvement.

Following is the table:

REGULAR RECRUITING
1957 1958
Royal Navy and Royal Marines
Royal Navy
Adults 1,983 (17,100 man years) 2,495 (21,300 man years)
Juniors 3,930 3,988
Apprentices 447 402
Royal Marines
Adults 680 (6,100 man years) 1,246 (11,100 man years)
Juniors 125 114
Army
3 years 19,607 4,058
6 years 2,972 16,377
9 years 1,886 5,488
Others 1,155 2,963
Total Adults 25,620 (96,300 man years) 28,886 (167,300 man years)
Boys 1,955 3,341
Apprentices 1,121 1,060
Royal Air Force
3 years 7,073 8,247
4 years 1,447 1,233
5 years 2,841 3,823
9 years and over 2,725 5,394
Total Adults 14,086 (68,000 man years) 18,697 (101,100 man years)
Boys 1,946 2,384
Apprentices 1,447 1,290
All Services Total
Adults 42,369 (187,500 man years) 51,324 (300,800 man years)