§ 16 and 17. Mr. John Hallasked the Secretary of State for War (1) in what way the 1st Grenadier Guards was built up to a strength of just over 700 all ranks;
(2) if all battalions of the Brigade of Guards are up to full strength in both men and equipment, and able to fill at short notice a combatant infantry rôle.
§ Mr. ProfumoThe 1st Grenadier Guards had to be reduced in strength before it went to the Cameroons. Postings within the regiment were reorganised to ensure that everyone going to the Cameroons had at least six months left to serve. All the battalions of the Brigade of Guards are at a strength adequate for their duties, and they can all if necessary fulfil a combatant infantry rôle at short notice.