HC Deb 22 October 1941 vol 374 cc1803-4W
Major Lyons

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider increasing the size of each military fitter-training establishment, possibly on a two-shift basis; and whether, with a view to an increase in out-turn, he will introduce a system of grading of entrants at the commencement of each training course, so as to ensure that those already possessing some knowledge and practical experience are not retarded in more advanced instruction by those trainees of another classification who are without any previous experience?

Captain Margesson

Since there is no longer any acute shortage of semi-skilled fitters in the Army it has not been thought necessary to increase the size of the training establishments, where in fact double shifts are worked when necessary. All entrants are tested at the commencement of the course, the length of which is adjusted to the ascertained needs of the individual trainees.