Colonel Sandeman Allenasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now in a position to make a statement on the financial support to be given by his Department to the cadet force?
§ Mr. LawAs my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, the position of the cadet force has been carefully reviewed in the light of war conditions and it has been decided to make certain changes in the present organisation of the force and the arrangements for financial assistance. As these changes involve a certain amount of detail. I append a full statement.
Following is the statement:—
- 1. While enrolment in the force will still be open to boys aged 12 upwards, grants will in future be paid only in respect of cadets aged 14, 15 and 16, and will be conditional, as at present, on the performance of a certain amount of military training.
- 2. The present capitation grant of 5s. a year will be increased to 8s. 6d., including in each case is. for the Cadet Committee, provided that the total sum admissible does not exceed £ 15,000 a year.
333 - 3. In addition to the £750 a year at present allotted to the British National Cadet Association for administrative expenses, a further grant of £4,250 will be made to be spent by the Association for the benefit of the cadet force. It is under stood that this grant is to be partly used this year to raise the 8s. 6d. grant to us. a head for school cadets and 13s. a head for other cadets.
- 4. A grant of 10s. will continue to be made in respect of each cadet who passes the practical test known as Certificate A (War).