§ 28. Mr. AMMONasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to a circular letter, signed by the colonel of the South Wales Borderers and issued from Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, inviting ex-regular soldiers to organise a regimental association with a club house at Newport (Mon.); whether he is aware that in the circular letter an attack is made on Labour leaders, and that the proposed headquarters of the association is the Junior Constitutional Club, Newport; and what action will be taken with regard to the issuing of such a letter, in view of the recent Regulations prescribing the political activities of officers and men in the services?
§ Commodore KINGI have seen a copy of the circular in question which was an appeal for funds to found a regimental association and employment bureau. Although the letter was marked "private," some of the expressions used were unfortunate and ill-advised, and the attention of the officer who signed the circular and who is at present serving in India is being called to this fact.
§ Mr. AMMONCan the Financial Secretary say what has been done with regard to the Regulations dealing with the activities of officers in reference to political offences?
§ Commodore KINGYes, the attention of this officer has been called to the Regulations. This officer has been nearly the whole of his service in India, and he is now serving in India.
§ Mr. THURTLEMay I ask the Financial Secretary whether in addition to calling the attention of the officer in question to this matter any disciplinary action will be taken against him?
§ Commodore KINGI think calling his attention to the matter will be sufficient.