HC Deb 23 January 1940 vol 356 cc357-8
21. Major Cazalet

asked the Secretary of State for War under what conditions serving officers and other ranks may wear civilian dress when on leave?

Mr. Stanley

Officers and other ranks from the British Expeditionary Force, when on leave in the United Kingdom, may wear civilian dress if they wish; and all ranks, whether on leave or not, may wear plain clothes for athletic exercise for which a special dress is necessary.

Major Cazalet

Would my right hon. Friend pay special regard to the soldier in this country who is getting his week's privilege leave and has been issued with only one uniform, and wishes to have that cleaned? He cannot spend the whole leave in bed.

Mr. Stanley

I will certainly look into any circumstances which compel any soldier to spend the whole of his leave in bed, but I doubt whether in fact such circumstances do arise.

Mr. Thorne

Are any members of the Forces allowed to come to this House in civilian clothes without a special order?

Mr. Stanley

The rule depends on whether soldiers are on leave from the British Expeditionary Force or not.

Major Cazalet

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his predecessor has given authority to Members of this House to attend the House in civilian clothes, although he has no authority whatever over them in this House?