The cadet Forces' Future
Welcome news was given by the Earl of Munster last Tuesday when ha informed the House of Lords that it was the Government's intention to maintain the pre-service cadet organisations for the three services on a voluntary basis after the war. There can scarcely be two opinions about the invaluable work done by these organ- isations not only in giving some preliminary training to youths before they are recruited for the fighting services but also in the excellent mental and moral influence they have had on the youths who have joined. They have provided in the course of training an interest and a keenness which have contrasted with the slackness and demoralisation so much in evidence among other sections of the young under the conditions of war. The fact that they have been associated with the services has undoubtedly been one of their principal attractions. The idea of service, and service specifically for war, has been a predominant motive for joining. But the movement has acquired a prestige and something of a tradition which should help to commend it to boys even after the war if care is taken to preserve its character and if it continues to be, as now, associated with the services. The problem of youth, as the Duke of Montrose suggested, is an essential part of the problem of planning. Here is a vital youth service ready-made to our hand. It is not the only one possible or desirable. National service for youth on a broader basis has still to be thought out.
Previous page
