§ 24. Sir F. Macleanasked the Minister of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the scheme whereby young men waiting to go up to university are commissioned into the Army in the interim period to gain experience of service in the armed forces.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithIn February this year 24 young men were commissioned as second lieutenants for service in the Army for a few months before they go up to their universities. They are employed in various regiments and corps in this country and Germany on worthwhile tasks involving leadership and responsibility. They have settled down extremely well. We are considering expanding the scheme next year.
§ Sir F. MacleanAre there any indications that any of these young men will make the Army their career?
§ Mr. Johnson SmithSome are considering applying for university cadetships. which would benefit the Army.