§ 45. Sir H. Williamsasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that persons in the Services who are delegates to the forthcoming Conservative Party conference have been forbidden to speak thereat, despite the fact that many such persons spoke at the recent Liberal and Labour Party conferences; and will he take steps to remove this discrimination.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Churchill)Members of the forces are allowed to attend political meetings, but are not allowed to speak at them, as such action would amount to taking an active part in the affairs of a political organisation or party, which is forbidden by the King's Regulations. This does not apply to serving Members of Parliament, who during the war may speak on any occasion. Prospective candidates may speak in their own constituencies only.
§ Sir H. WilliamsIs my right hon. Friend aware that certain people broke the law by speaking at a Labour Party conference?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. I think it is all run very fairly, with full agreement 2218 between the heads of the various parties represented in the Government. We would not in any circumstances allow the stealing of marches and unfair tricks in a matter of this kind. We would be very glad to discuss the matter with all other parties.
§ Mr. ShinwellMy right hon. Friend can surety be relied upon not to encourage the Conservative Party to break the law?
§ The Prime MinisterThe suggestion in the Question is that the other parties break it. I can only say that I trust that the Conservative Party will long remain a model in this respect.
§ Mr. Edgar GranvilleDoes my right hon. Friend's answer mean that delegates attending these conferences who are members of His Majesty's Forces are unable to take part, even if they are wearing civilian clothing?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. But, of course, if they were in civilian clothes it might not be noticed.