HC Deb 23 March 1967 vol 743 c331W
Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the number of non-commissioned British recruits into the forces in 1966.

Mr. Reynolds

46,277.

Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what were the numbers of British recruits to the forces in 1966 who were between 14½ and 17 years of age, the numbers of those who entered from the houses and schools of voluntary organisations, and the numbers from residential institutions and schools of local and county authorities.

Mr. Reynolds

There were 12.007 recruits between the ages of 15 and 17½. To provide the rest of this information would involve disproportionate effort and expenditure.

Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what were the age groups of the non-commissioned British recruits who joined the forces in 1966.

Mr. Reynolds

This information is not readily available; and I will write to the hon. Gentleman.