HC Deb 23 January 1951 vol 483 cc13-4W
Mr. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for War the number of men who applied to join the Regular Army between the date of the introduction of the new pay increases and 31st December, 1950; the number actually enlisted; the number rejected on medical grounds; the number rejected for other reasons; and if he will give the figures for the corresponding period of 1949.

Mr. Strachey

Between 1st September and 31st December, 1950, 11,501 men applied to join the Army; 8,445 actually enlisted, 1,211 were rejected on medical grounds and 1,099 for other reasons. The balance of 746 did not enlist, principally owing to their voluntary withdrawal. For the corresponding period in 1949, 7,951 men applied to join the Army; 4,332 actually enlisted, 827 were rejected on medical grounds and 729 for other reasons. Two thousand and sixty-three did not enlist principally because they were over the age limit or because they withdrew voluntarily. Arrangements have now been made whereby men who are over the age limit can, in many cases, enlist.