§ 77. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of of State for War if he is aware that his intention that all soldiers shall have facilities for education is being frustrated by an order issued by the commanding officer, 1st Royal Dragoons, B.A.O.R., to the effect that recruits and reinforcements may not attend the education hour until they have attained a special standard of proficiency in footdrill and that, with rare exceptions, no man is to be sent on an educational course unless his Class A release group is within the eight groups next due for release; and if he will give instructions for a suitable modification or withdrawal of this order, which has caused indignation among the men concerned.
§ Mr. LawsonOwing to the wide variations in the state of training of men posted to this unit, they are given a two weeks' course of training, which includes instruction in footdrill. Arrangements have now been made to include the usual educational periods in this two weeks' course. The fulltime educational courses at formation colleges are intended for those who have shown they can profit from them, but it is in accordance with War Office policy for men in early age and service groups to be given preference for such courses.