asked the Secretary of State for War, what trained Reserves are ready to fill the immediate gaps owing to deaths, wounds, sickness, etc., after our Regular and Territorial Armies have been fully mobilised and sent to war?

It would not be in the public interest to disclose this information.

In order to provide the necessary Reserves, would my right hon. Friend consider suggesting to the Cabinet that we should have compulsory national training in order to supply these Reserves, and in the meantime, during the danger period and before these Reserves are ready, will he consider, if necessary, the calling out of the Territorial Army to fill up the interim period?

Obviously it will be incumbent on the Government, if there is an emergency, to do all that is practicable.

Mr. Vyvyan Adams:

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the present circumstances the dimensions of the British Army are entirely inadequate?

No, Sir, I was not aware of that, because it is a matter of opinion.

Is it not the fact that the information about Reserves and the Regular Army is published in the papers?

Yes, Sir, the total figure is published, but I do not think that my hon. and gallant Friend who has asked this question is referring to the comparable figures.

Is the question of National Service under consideration?

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the opinion expressed by the hon. and gallant Member, in requesting that compulsory training should be imposed, would be opposed by other hon. Members of this House?