§ 15. Mr. Frankelasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the colonel at a zone headquarters, Home Guard, of which he has been informed, has drawn the attention of commanders of all group and mobile battalions under him to the letter from Lieut.-Colonel Bingham, published in the "Times," with the suggestion that the problem raised by the letter should be carefully borne in mind in recommending men for commissions; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Captain MargessonI have called for a report on this matter. When it has been received and considered, I will write to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. FrankelIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, as we understand from the Press, these commissions are in process of being given now? I am sure the House will want an assurance that the circular sent out by this gentleman, a copy of which I have with me, will not influence the granting of commissions in that area until the right hon. and gallant Gentleman has looked into the matter?
§ Captain MargessonCertainly, Sir. That is why I called for a report straight away.
§ 21. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Secretary of State for War, whether the Home Guard are authorised to fire on all attempts to land troops by parachute?
§ Captain MargessonYes, Sir.
§ Sir T. MooreWhile thanking my right hon. and gallant Friend for his answer, will he refer to the answer he gave to Question No. 16, and say how the Home Guard is to distinguish between our own air troops who may be baling out and invading forces, since the latter may be similarly attired?
§ Captain MargessonI think that the Home Guard have a fair degree of common sense.
§ 11. Mr. Cecil Wilson (for Mr. J. H. Hollins)asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the case of two men killed by a Home Guard; and whether any provision has been made for their dependants?
§ Captain MargessonI am aware of one such case. The matter is being looked into.