§ 17. Mr. Molloyasked the Minister of State for Defence what steps are being taken to improve recruitment to the armed services, in view of Her Majesty's Government's policy regarding military commitments east of Suez.
§ Lord BalnielThe Government are working to create among young people, and those who advise them on their choice of career, a greater awareness of the importance to the nation of the 401 Armed Forces and the tasks they undertake, as well as the high quality of the careers offered within the Services.
§ Mr. MolloyIn view of the Government's policy to accept responsibilities by the Armed Forces east of Suez, to increase the contribution to N.A.T.O., and to clear up Petticoat Lane, when the training starts, if the recruitment is successful, which will be given the priority—training for service east of Suez or for strengthening N.A.T.O.?
§ Lord BalnielThe hon. Gentleman will be glad to know that since July there has been an increase in recuitment to the Services of 11.5 per cent. I think that this reflects to some extent the efforts being made by the present Government.
§ Mr. AllasonIn view of the very serious recruiting situation which the Government inherited, will my hon. Friend look at the experience back in 1962–1963, when Sir Frederic Hooper was employed to advise the Government on recruiting, with a resultant tremendous boost to our recruiting figures?
§ Lord BalnielRecruiting is undoubtedly one of the most serious constraints on the development of the Armed Forces. I am giving it the most urgent attention, and I hope before too long to be able to make a statement to the House.
§ Mr. George ThomsonWill the Minister put that highly selective statistic which he has just given into proper perspective and pay credit where it is due? Will he tell the House that during the last 12 months of our administration recruiting went up by about 8,000 over the previous 12 months?
§ Lord BalnielIf the right hon. Gentleman feels anxious for some credit, I will happily give it to him.