HC Deb 03 July 1973 vol 859 cc234-6
9. Mr. R. C. Mitchell

asked the Minister of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the decrease in the Army recruiting figures for April 1973 as compared with April 1971 and April 1972.

Mr. Blaker

Although the decrease was exaggerated as a result of the intervention of the Easter holiday this year, there was a downward trend in recruiting in April 1973 compared to April 1972, as there was between April 1972 and April 1971. The statement on the defence estimates made it clear that there would be difficulties in recruiting this year. We are watching the situation closely but it is too early to say how the current year's performance is likely to compare with the forecast.

Mr. Mitchell

Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that the April 1973 figures are very much down on those of April 1972? Does he not regard this as serious? Does he think that there will be any improvement in recruiting until the British Army is disengaged from Northern Ireland?

Mr. Blaker

I agree that the April 1973 figures are significantly down on last year but I have already explained one of the factors. Our researches show that Northern Ireland is or may be now one of the factors affecting recruitment, but we believe that it is one of the least important ones. The Army's presence in Northern Ireland is still vital. It has been achieving very considerable successes against the terrorists and it is necessary for it to remain there until the violence has subsided and peace has been restored.

Mr. Kenneth Lewis

Accepting that this recruitment will not be any easier in the next year, as unemployment goes down, may I ask whether the Ministry and the Armed Services have looked at the possibility of increased use of civilians, particularly in Northern Ireland, so that the forces can concentrate more on the military task and the civilians can take over subsidiary duties?

Mr. Blaker

I take the point. We have done a great deal of civilianisation. We are always prepared to see whether there is scope for more, but I doubt whether there is a great deal of scope left in this direction.

Mr. Judd

These figures are really disturbing and there are grounds for deep concern. Will the hon. Gentleman undertake to make a full statement on the situation to the House before the Summer Recess?

Mr. Blaker

The hon. Gentleman, with all his experience in these matters, would not be justified in reading drastic implications into the figures for one month. A statement is a matter for my right hon. Friend.

Major-General Jack d'Avigdor-Goldsmid

Does not my lion. Friend agree that the raising of the school leaving age and the fact that we are not allowed now to take junior soldiers at that age is also having its effect on recruiting?

Mr. Blaker

It is a factor which inevitably will have its effect on recruiting. It was, of course, considered and the decision was taken of which my hon. and gallant Friend is aware. However, we have recently introduced a scheme under which boys still at school are guaranteed vacancies in our junior training organisation when they leave at the age of 16 or over, and so far the response is encouraging.