HC Deb 11 March 1940 vol 358 cc826-7
44. Mr. Kennedy

asked the Prime Minister whether, as Leader of the House, he will take steps to ascertain the opinion of the House in general as to the wearing of Army, Navy, or Air Force uniform by Members when engaged in the exercise of their Parliamentary duties in the House of Commons?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. In my opinion the House would prefer that the present practice should be continued, namely, to leave this question to the discretion of hon. Members.

Mr. Kennedy

May I take it that the Prime Minister will agree that so far as possible, providing it is not necessary, Members should appear in this House in civilian clothes?

The Prime Minister

That would not be consistent with the answer that I gave.

Mr. McGovern

Is it not the case that, according to the views expressed in the House and in the country, there are not enough of them in uniform?