§ Mr. Naylorasked the Secretary of State for War what is the approximate total 1717W number of officers and men engaged in recruiting offices throughout the country; and whether, in view of the change-over to compulsory service, there is any further need for their continuance?
§ Captain MargessonThe staff employed by the War Office in recruiting centres amounts to less than 700, of whom 163 are recruiting officers. As regards the second part of the Question, voluntary enlistment for certain corps and certain classes of tradesmen and specialists has been permitted since the introduction of compulsory service in 1939, and the provisions of the Bill at present being discussed by the House do not affect these arrangements. The duties of recruiting officers also include the interviewing of men called up under the National Service Acts. The numbers employed will be kept under review.