HC Deb 17 July 1939 vol 350 c30
58. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the decision not to hold a compulsory church parade for militiamen on their first Sunday in training, he will entirely abolish compulsory church parades for militiamen, excepting for ceremonial purposes, whilst giving every facility for voluntary attendance at church, or for other forms of religious observance that do not interfere with military duties?

Sir V. Warrender

The decision referred to in the question was no doubt given locally in order to allow the militiamen more time to settle down in their new surroundings. Such an arrangement is not unusual in the Army on a change of station. It affords, however, no reason for a general departure from the regulation that militiamen will attend parade services.

Mr. Sorensen

Does not the Financial Secretary appreciate the fact that an attempt to impose religion on anyone defeats its own object, and is he aware that last Sunday numbers of these militiamen were none the worse for being allowed to decide whether they would go to Church or not? Will he not take that as a precedent and establish the right for men to choose for themselves how and where they shall worship?

Sir John Haslam

Is it not better for young men of 20 to attend church?

Sir V. Warrender

Compulsory church parade has been customary in the Army for a long time, and my right hon. Friend and I see no reason to change it.

Mr. Sorensen

Does not the hon. Member realise that there is a distinction between men who voluntarily choose to join the Army and accept all its implications, and these conscripts?