§ 18. Mr. Silkinasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a corps commander, whose name has been given him, frequently has two military policemen following his motor-car on motor-cycles to take the names of officers and men, for disciplinary action, who fail to salute his car; whether he approves this action; and whether, in view of the need to save man-power and petrol, he will put an end to this practice?
§ The Financial Secretary to the War Office (Mr. Arthur Henderson)A commander is responsible for maintaining a high standard of discipline in his troops, and insistence on punctiliousness in saluting is one of the methods by which this high standard is achieved. Some of the troops in the case referred to in the Question had shown a lack of alertness by their failure to salute the corps commander's flag in accordance with orders, and in the circumstances the commander exercising his discretion adopted the measure referred to. On no occasion were the police taken on long journeys.
§ Mr. Ivor ThomasDoes the hon. and learned Gentleman really think that it is practicable to salute a flag on a rapidly moving car?
§ Mr. HendersonYes, Sir.
§ Mr. SilkinDoes my hon. and learned Friend not think that this is a very expensive way of maintaining discipline?
§ Mr. HendersonAs a matter of fact, for the last six weeks the commander has been able to dispense with his escort.