Vocational Training

2.

Mr. Bellenger
asked the Secretary of State for War whether serving soldiers undergoing vocational training before their return to civil life are required to make any financial contribution towards the cost of such training, and, if so, how much?

Mr. Cooper
Yes, Sir. The standard fees range from 5s. a week for a private or lance-corporal to 10s. a week for a warrant officer, Class I, with half rates for courses in dairy, general or pig farming.

Mr. Bellenger
Has the right hon. Gentleman this question under review, with the object of doing away with these charges and thereby making the Service more attractive?

Mr. Cooper
Yes, Sir. The question is under review.

Mr. Shinwell
Ought not the training to be reckoned as part of the remuneratory service rendered by the State to the soldiers, who have themselves rendered service to the State?

Mr. Cooper
That is another way of putting it.