HC Deb 06 April 1943 vol 388 c478
23. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider arranging for formal route marches to take place periodically through the nearest towns to military camps accompanied by military bands?

Sir J. Grigg

This is done whenever opportunities occur. But most route marching is done as part of the unit's operational training. The bandsmen are then employed on their operational duties, and no band accompanies the unit.

Sir T. Moore

While I dislike harping on this subject, will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that this arrangement of bands accompanying troops who are in the public eye is good for the troops themselves and most invigorating for civilians?

Sir J. Grigg

I quite agree, but I should not put it down as the most important part of troops' training.

Mr. Thorne

Will the Minister bear in mind the fact that a great number of men who are working on munitions at night have to sleep in the day-time?