§ Sir W. SEAGERasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that up to the week ending 22nd May last the total number of enlistments in the three infantry battalions of the South Wales Territorial Brigade were 82 only; whether this serious position is peculiar to the particular area from which this brigade is recruited; and the reasons given by the local recruiting authorities for such a poor response.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe position up to the 22nd May was as stated by the hon. Member. Recruiting in Wales generally has been difficult, but progress is now beginning to show itself. The reasons given by the local recruiting authorities are briefly as follow:—
Every endeavour is being made to over-come these difficulties, and there are signs that the situation is becoming more favourable. In some instances in the Welsh area the recruiting may be considered to be good and considerably above the average elsewhere in Great Britain.
- (1) The high wages earned in South Wales at the present time.
- (2) A general disinclination at present to undertake further military service.
- (3) The difficulty of employers granting fifteen days' camp leave with pay in view of the high wages.