§ 72. Major Tufton Beamishasked the Secretary of State for War for what reasons the Army Commandos have been disbanded and whether any arrangements are being made for a stand-down parade.
§ Mr. LawsonAs I explained on 25th October, in reply to a Question my my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Aston (Major Wyatt), it is impossible for the Army to retain in peace-time specialised units such as the Commandos, owing to the reduced man-power available. No arrangements have been made for a stand-down parade.
§ Major BeamishWill the right hon. Gentleman tell the House why this superb voluntary force, in which 57 regiments and corps were represented on D Day, is just being faded out as though we were ashamed of them? Will he see that an arrangement is made for a stand-down parade, so that they can go out at least with flying colours?
§ Mr. LawsonYes, I quite understand the very strong feeling and sentiment about this unit. All I can say is that it will receive consideration in connection with the Victory March later on.