§ 29. Sir William Waylandasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the unnecessary damage to valuable agricultural land caused during 347 recent Army exercises in south-east Kent, involving the straying of livestock and a set-back to food production; and whether he will immediately issue an instruction to Army commanders-as to the need for enforcing strict orders to ensure the more careful driving of Army vehicles, especially tanks, and particularly the closing of field and other gates to prevent the straying of sheep and cattle?
§ Mr. A. HendersonInstructions in writing have been issued to all units which emphasise the necessity of avoiding all possible damage to agricultural interests. Troops must, however, learn to make the best use of land over which they are manoeuvring and in areas used for intensive battle training some damage and dislocation of agricultural life cannot, unfortunately, be avoided if the training is to be realistic and valuable. If my hon. Friend will send me particulars of any wanton damage which has come to his notice, I will gladly have the points looked into in detail.
§ Mr. MesserHave the Army done as much damage as the foxhunters?