§ 93. Mr. A. Lewisasked the Secretary of State for War if he has considered a letter from the hon. Member for West Ham, North, concerning the conditions and the facilities available for the training of Class Z reservists at the East Wretham Camp, Thetford, Norfolk; and when he may expect a reply.
§ Mr. StracheyYes. A reply to this letter will be sent very shortly.
§ 94. Mr. A. Lewisasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the many complaints made by Class Z reservists called up for training at the East Wretham Camp, Thetford, Norfolk; that most of their time was spent on useless fatigues and guard duties; that they had no training in the use of modern weapons; that the whole of their equipment used for training purposes was of an obsolete character; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StracheyThe complaints referred to by my hon. Friend are not borne out by the reports of the senior officers who have visited the units which have undergone training at East Wretham camp. Only essential fatigues and guard duties such as would be necessary in a unit in battle are performed. Training is carried out with the best weapons available.
There is not sufficient of the most modern equipment to supply every unit, nor is it possible at all camps for tanks to fire their main armament. Consequently, at East Wretham camp Cromwell tanks were supplied which are adequate for the purpose of tactical training. In some cases the equipment is obsolescent, but it is the same as that used in training units of the Regular Army. If my hon. Friend would care to pay the camp a visit he would be most welcome.