HC Deb 24 October 1946 vol 428 cc29-30
45. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Prime Minister if he will give an assurance that it is not intended to proceed with the introduction of an extension of compulsory service until a comprehensive scheme has been prepared for the democratisation of the Armed Forces.

The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. A. V. Alexander)

I have been asked to reply. I am fully in sympathy with what I think my hon. Friend means by "democratisation of the Armed Forces." But, I could not be expected to give a specific assurance in respect of such a general phrase, which different people would interpret in different ways.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that the men who have served during the recent war are seething with indignation at the conditions they have had to serve under? If they are to be compelled to serve in all parts of the world, will he immediately publicly repudiate the provocative war speech made by the right hon. Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill) yesterday?

Mr. Alexander

I do not think the speech of yesterday arises out of this Question. I am sure my hon. Friend will take all necessary opportunities to answer it. I would say regarding the first part of the supplementary—

Mr. Churchill

What about the Government?

Mr. Alexander

I am quite sure the right hon. Gentleman knows that we can give as good as we get.

Mr. Churchill

The question is whether the Government can give as good as they know.

Mr. Alexander

I do not think all the statesmanship lies in one party, and with what we know we shall do our best. Might I reply to the first part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question? I am sure he must be aware that a good many reforms are already going on, and we shall continue to do our best in that direction.

Mr. Driberg

Arising out of my right hon. Friend's original answer, in order to assist him to particularise his researches into democratisation, may I ask if he will bear in mind that both the Navy and the Army still maintain a colour bar, which is a serious affront to a good many of our fellow citizens? Could I have an answer?

Mr. Alexander

I have taken a note of what my hon. Friend has said.