§ 15. Mr. Cluseasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that on a recent Sunday 200 members of the Home Guard travelled from North Middlesex to West Sussex, at a cost averaging 15s. per head, to undertake practice; that only 20 shots per head were fired; that the journey and practice lasted 12 hours; and whether, as well equipped ranges exist a few miles away in Hertfordshire, he will take steps to prevent a recurrence of the waste?
§ Sir J. GriggThis case is now being looked into and I will communicate with my hon. Friend in due course.
§ Mr. CluseWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that quite a large number of members of the Home Guard are busily employed all through the week, and find themselves in the position of having to use up their leisure time on Sundays, chasing round doing things which they could very well do much nearer home?
§ Sir J. GriggThat is precisely the obligation which the Home Guard take on, to give up some of their leisure in the service of the country. I quite agree that that time should not be wasted but used, but it is no good pretending that they are not called upon to give up some of their leisure.