HC Deb 08 April 1970 vol 799 c544
40. Mr. Ridsdale

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why in certain cases the Territorial and Army Volunteer Reserve is unable to issue uniforms to new recruits.

Mr. Richard

There have been certain production difficulties in regard to both No. 2 dress and combat clothing which have affected issues to the Regular Army and the Reserve Army. Urgent action has been taken with contractors to remedy this situation.

Mr. Ridsdale

Is not this scandalous? Does not the Minister realise that when there is a shortage like this people begin to wonder what else the Government are trying to cover up? Is he not aware that this is why many hon. Members ask for a Select Committee on defence?

Mr. Richard

It may or may not be scandalous, but the hon. Gentleman should know that the production difficulties are due to the failure of the contractors to meet their delivery dates and are not attributable to this Department.

Mr. Crawshaw

Will my hon. Friend agree that this seems to indicate that it is a good job that we do not reach our recruitment figures?

Mr. Richard

I do not agree, since, as I am sure my hon. Friend will realise, had the orders placed with the contractors been met, they would have been sufficient to cover all the recruits we were asking for.