HC Deb 16 November 1960 vol 630 cc33-4W
Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Minister of Defence if he will state the total number in the Armed Forces; how many of these are conscripts; what is the estimated total of Regulars on 1st January, 1962; and if he will cut the two-year call-up period.

Mr. Watkinson

On 1st October, 1960, the total strength of the Forces was 478,000 men—including 106,300 National Service men—15,000 women and 20,000 boys. A forecast of strengths at 1st April, 1962, will appear in the annual White Paper on Defence early next year. The answer to the last part of the question is "No".