HC Deb 11 November 1947 vol 444 cc53-4W
83. Mr. Anthony Greenwood

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the ratio of chaplains to troops in B.A.O.R.; how this compares with the figures for troops in the United Kingdom; and whether he is satisfied that it is adequate.

Mr. M. Stewart

The ratio of chaplains to troops varies somewhat in different theatres owing to the operation of the release scheme and other factors and a comparison with the United Kingdom might be misleading, as considerable use is made here of ordinary clergy as officiating chaplains. The ratio in B.A.O.R. is in fact for this reason substantially higher than in the United Kingdom but the numbers are at present slightly below those permissible. I hope that the standard will be reached by 1st April next.