HC Deb 07 October 1941 vol 374 cc817-8
11. Mr. Tinker

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the position of all ranks when a particular place is put out of bounds; does it apply to all; and, if not, who are those to whom the ban does not cover?

Captain Margesson

It is open to a commander to impose restrictions of this kind on all or any ranks under his command, and exceptions may be made at his discretion. If my hon. Friend has in mind a particular case in which an instruction of this nature appears to have worked unfairly, I shall be glad to look into it.

Mr. Tinker

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that the information that I have is that the ranks are put out of bounds and the officers are not put out of bounds, and that this is causing discontent between the parties?

Captain Margesson

Perhaps my hon. Friend will let me have particulars.

Mr. Bellenger

Can my right hon. and gallant Friend say whether a commander is to be of any lower rank than a general officer?

Captain Margesson

I understand it is the commander of the unit.