§ 7. Mr. David Watkinsasked the Minister of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the youth service facilities available to British service personnel and their dependants in Germany.
§ The Minister of State for Defence (Lord Balniel)An official Youth Service controlled by the Commander-in-Chief B.A.O.R. has been in operation since 1st January, 1969. Four full-time youth service officers co-ordinate all activities under the guidance of a youth advisory committee. Funds are provided for works services, equipment, training and other expenses.
§ Mr. WatkinsI thank the hon. Gentleman for that answer. Is he satisfied that the facilities are being used to the maximum advantage and that their availability is sufficiently well known to the Service personnel and their dependants who are entitled to make use of them?
§ Lord BalnielIf the hon. Gentleman knows of any instance in which they are not well known, I will certainly look into the matter. However, my impression is that this service is well appreciated by the families of Service men, and many clubs have been formed in B.A.O.R. to assist children.
§ Mr. NormantonHaving recently returned from a tour of the Army and Air Force in Germany, may I, with respect, confirm the views expressed by my hon. Friend and add that the rôle played by the youth service in training youth leaders is greatly appreciated? Having regard to this, will my hon. Friend consider an extension of this service into other areas where the Services are concentrated, and particularly into those which stand in need of similar facilities?
§ Lord BalnielI am glad for my hon. Friend's confirmation of the value of this service, under which youth leaders are trained. We are about to start a similar scheme in Cyprus, where one is working at present on a voluntary basis but with inadequate means.