HC Deb 13 November 1968 vol 773 c93W
9. Dame Irene Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what contingency plans he has made for manning the forces in the event of the requisite number not being forthcoming on a voluntary basis.

Mr. Reynolds

Recruitment has been unsatisfactory, but at the moment it shows some small signs of improvement. We are not planning for the hypothetical situation of a breakdown in the voluntary system. It is better to emphasise the fact that the Services have a clear and worthwhile future, and that young men of the right quality are assured of an absorbing and rewarding career.

10. Dame Irene Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how the intake of British cadets at Sandhurst over the last three years compares with the requirements.

Mr. Boyden

In 1966 almost the same; in 1967 the January course was 35 short and the September course was 1 over; in 1968 both intakes were a dozen short.