HC Deb 29 November 1920 vol 135 c941W
Mr. BLAIR

asked the Secretary of State for War the strength of the Royal Chaplains Department at 31st October, 1920; whether it has been proportionately reduced with other branches: and whether he will consider if it is necessary to retain a chaplain-in-chief for the Royal Air Force under existing conditions?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The total strength of the Royal Army Chaplains Department on 31st October last was 330; and the number of chaplains, Royal Air Force, was 28, the establishment being 29. The number of Army chaplains is being reduced as the exigencies of the Service admit, and the future peace establishment is now under consideration. With regard to the last part of the question, it has been decided after full consideration to retain a Chaplain-in-Chief for the Royal Air Force. No financial saving would be effected by merging the chaplains of the Royal Air Force into the Royal Army Chaplains Department, whilst for other reasons it was considered to be undesirable.

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