§ 11. Mr. MAXTONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty the reason for the order he has recently issued to officers and men in the Navy which compels them to salute by raising the hand when riding bicycles or driving motor cars?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLThe ordinary form of salute, with the hand, has been adopted as more suitable than the form previously in force. The new salute, like the old one, is to be given only if the state of the road and traffic conditions permit.
§ Mr. MAXTONMay I ask whether before making this order the right hon. Gentleman consulted the Minister of Transport?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLNo, Sir; it was not necessary, because the Highway Code laid down by the Minister of Transport requires a movement of the hand for any of the movements requiring signalling.
§ Mr. MAXTONDoes the First Lord think it is a necessary part of the manipulation of a motor car and bicycle to salute an officer of the Navy?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLSalutes are recognised in the Red Army, subject to the conditions prevailing on the road surface.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that privates in the Red Army when driving in their motor cars never salute?