HC Deb 28 July 1942 vol 382 cc302-3
22. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has considered the letter sent to him by the hon. Member for West Fife drawing attention to the standing orders at Woolwich Royal Artillery depot which forbid soldiers to attend public meetings, with a view to the avoidance of disorder, and threaten men with severe punishment for lying about on grass in public parks when in uniform; and what steps he is taking in the matter?

Sir J. Grigg

I am looking into this matter, and will communicate with the hon. Member.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the Minister make certain that nothing is allowed to inferiere with the right of a soldier to attend public meetings?

Sir J. Grigg

The right is not unqualified.

Mr. Gallacher

The right to attend public meetings is unqualified. The only point is that they are not allowed to speak at public meetings.

Sir J. Grigg

That is what I meant.

Mr. Thorne

Would a soldier attending a town council meeting be regarded as attending a public meeting?