HC Deb 08 November 1949 vol 469 cc98-9W
Captain Bullock

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that all ranks of the Territorial Army are most anxious to wear the letter "T" once more on their uniform; what the reason is for the "T" being no longer allowed; and whether he will sanction the return to the old custom which would stimulate recruiting for the Territorial Army.

Mr. Shinwell

The views expressed by Territorial Army formations and unit commanders on the occasions when this matter has been considered by my Department indicate that the majority of the Territorial Army are opposed to the wearing of the letter "T" on their uniform. Having regard to the future rôle of the Territorial Army, any mark distinguishing it from the rest of the land Forces would be inappropriate. It would also be undesirable to differentiate between volunteers and the National Service men who will in future serve in the Territorial Army. I have no reason to suppose that the introduction of the sign would have any material effect on recruiting.