HC Deb 15 July 1936 vol 314 cc2050-1
Mr. LEACH

asked the Secretary of State for War what steps his Department has taken recently to secure Press publicity on behalf of recruiting; and whether in any announcements issued by his Department with this end in view he will take steps to make clear that margarine and not butter is served in Army rations?

Sir V. WARRENDER

Classified advertisements are inserted in the Press to encourage recruiting, and a recruiting publicity bureau was established on 1st January last in order to give to the Press every facility for presenting to the public material relating to Army life. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. LEACH

May I ask why the answer to the second part of the question is in the negative? Does it mean that the Department is ashamed of the fact and dare not advertise it? Can the hon. Gentleman say when the months of wearisome departmental discussions on this matter are to end in some conclusion?

Sir V. WARRENDER

I am not aware that there has been any change in the position which existed when the hon. Gentleman himself adorned one of the Defence Services.

Mr. LEACH

Has not the time come for a decision to be made after the long discussions that have been going on?

Sir V. WARRENDER

A decision will be come to in due course.