§ 17. Mr. Shinwellasked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the rates of pay for National Service men who are retained for six months; and whether the Service grants for families will be increased correspondingly.
§ Mr. ProfumoNational Service men who are retained for six months will receive the same rates of pay and marriage allowance as Regular soldiers on a six-year engagement.
§ Mr. ShinwellBut is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are many other emoluments—for example, efficiency pay and additional pay because of association with certain technical grades? Does not that mean that the men who are retained for a further six months will be entitled to these additional emoluments? Will it not mean some increase in the National Service grant?
§ Mr. ProfumoThe right hon. Gentleman asks whether this will mean an increase in the National Service grant. That grant will vary, as it always does, with the requirements, and according to basic pay. I could not give a categorical answer showing how each soldier will be affected by the National Service grant, or by the increased emoluments; I can only give a general answer. If the right hon. Gentleman wishes to ask a specific question I shall gladly either write to him or answer a direct Question if he puts it down.