HC Deb 10 December 1996 vol 287 c157W
Mrs. Ann Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the role of the Air Training Corp and the Army Cadet Force. [8087]

Mr. Soames

The role of the Air Training Corps, as stated in the objects of the corps, is:

  1. (a) to promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force;
  2. (b) to provide training which will be useful both in the services and in civil life;
  3. (c) to foster the spirit of adventure and to develop the qualities of leadership and good citizenship.

The role of the Army Cadet Force, as stated in its charter, is to inspire young people to achieve success in life with a spirit of service to the Queen, their country and their local community, and to develop in them the qualities of a good citizen. This aim is achieved by:

  1. (a) providing progressive cadet training, often of a challenging and exciting nature, to foster confidence, self reliance, initiative, loyalty, and a sense of service to others;
  2. (b) encouraging the development of personal powers of practical leadership and the ability to work successfully as a member of a team;
  3. (c) stimulating an interest in the Army, its achievements, skills and values;
  4. (d) advising and preparing those considering a career in the services or with the reserve forces.

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