HC Deb 15 December 1942 vol 385 cc1749-51
33. Mr. Cluse

asked the Secretary of State for War what regulations his Department has issued which would preclude members of the Home Guard from making representations to Members of Parliament on Service matters?

Sir J. Grigg

None, so far as I am aware.

Mr. Cluse

Will the Minister allow it to be broadcast that individuals in the Home Guard have the right to approach Members of Parliament?

Sir J. Grigg

Judging from my correspondence, I do not think there is any need for that to be broadcast.

34. Mr. Cluse

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that for the last six months at least 100 members of the Home Guard from 7 Zone Area travel to Rainham, are away 11 hours to fire eight shots when a, range is available at Edmonton; that other units spend days at Bisley and Purfleet when nearer ranges are available; and whether, in view of these and similar cases, he will take immediate steps to avoid, in future, such wasteful expenditure?

Sir J. Grigg

I shall be glad to have any cases investigated in which money, time or firing facilities have been wasted. But I should perhaps explain that the firing itself is only one part of firing instructions at the range, and the number of rounds fired does not necessarily indicate whether the practice has been useful or not. Facilities at ranges vary greatly, and in the limited time available for training members of the Home Guard it is often better to take a, number of men to a large range some distance away rather than to a small range near at hand. These factors vary from unit to unit, and I am satisfied that in general the most economical and expeditious arrangements are made.

Mr. Cluse

Will the Minister consider closely any correspondence I send to him on this question?

Sir J. Grigg

Certainly, Sir.

36. Major Milner

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has now any statement to make on the question of the supply of greatcoats to units of the Home Guard in Leeds?

Sir J. Grigg

Instructions went out a month ago to issue greatcoats instead of capes to all members of the Home Guard. These instructions are being carried out as fast as possible.

Major Milner

While I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, having regard to the delay, will he do what he can to expedite the issue before the winter becomes more severe?

Sir J. Grigg

Yes, Sir.