§ 93. Mr. Fisherasked the Secretary of State for War why it has been decided to reduce the Class Z call-up for this year by 39,000 men.
§ Mr. StracheyThe figure of 235,000 represented the maximum number of reservists which it was originally estimated could be trained in 1951. Following further detailed examination and consideration of such factors as the availability of accommodation and administrative facilities, the number to be called up will fall somewhat below the maximum figure.
§ 94. Mr. Doddsasked the Secretary of State for War why the application by Mr. F. W. Dean, 58, Heath Street, Dartford, supported by a doctor's certificate, to have his 15 days training period as a Class Z reservist postponed from 27th May to 10th June on the grounds that his wife is due to become confined during that period, there is a son of three years in poor health, and they are without relatives nearby to assist, has been turned down.
55W
§ Mr. StracheyReservists have been selected for training with the units for which their qualifications make them most suitable. These units are carrying out training at fixed periods throughout the year and if alternative dates for training were granted it would mean that a reservist would have to train with another unit. This would defeat one of the main purposes of the training, which is that men should serve together in the units to which they would be posted in the event of mobilisation. Alternative training dates can therefore be granted only in a very small number of most exceptional cases. In Mr. Dean's case it was not possible to offer alternative dates but, in the light of the additional information which has been furnished by my hon. Friend, instructions have now been issued cancelling Mr. Dean's call-up for training this year.