asked the Secretary of State for War how many mobile battalions are in existence; and what training they are doing

There are 517 mobile columns, which I understand the hon. and gallant Member is referring to. The men in these columns carry out their normal duties and, in addition, take part in special exercises in this mobile rôle.

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that an increase of 15 over the 502 mobile columns in existence in March, 1952, is a satisfactory rate of increase in view of the expenditure incurred in the interval?

Yes, Sir. These mobile columns, formed from administrative units,are merely in being in order to act as extra reserves in the event of a serious crisis.