HC Deb 01 February 1955 vol 536 cc84-5W
67. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for War what percentage of men who originally enlisted on a Regular engagement of three years with the Colours have prolonged their engagements since the introduction of the three-year engagement.

Mr. F. Maclean

Between November, 1951, and 1st January, 1955, 81,169 men have enlisted on a three-year engagement. Such men are free to prolong their service at any time up to the last day of their engagement, but, so far, only 2.4 per cent. have completed their engagement. Up to 1st January, 1955, 779 men had prolonged their service, but it would clearly be pointless to express this figure as a percentage of the 2.4 per cent. who have completed their service since the two figures are not related.