Infantry Brigades (Conversion to Large Regiments)

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Defence – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 24 November 1965.

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Photo of Mr Oscar Murton Mr Oscar Murton , Poole 12:00, 24 November 1965

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish a list of those infantry brigades converting to large regiments within the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement.

Photo of Mr Fred Mulley Mr Fred Mulley , Sheffield Park

The second large regiment, the Royal Green Jackets, is to be farmed in January next. As I told the hon. Member on 27th October, I would welcome the move of other brigades to a similar organisation.

Photo of Mr Oscar Murton Mr Oscar Murton , Poole

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept that the Territorial Army P as in the past been a fruitful source of recruiting for Regular county regiments and that now that the Minister has decided upon the virtual disbanding of tae Territorial Army this may have a great effect upon what brigades can in future be formed into the new larger regiments?

Photo of Mr Fred Mulley Mr Fred Mulley , Sheffield Park

We accept, of course, that the organisation of the Territorial Army has a bearing on Regular recruiting. As I have said in answer to previous Questions, we are very concerned about this.