HC Deb 16 December 1947 vol 445 cc1481-2
22. Mr. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for War why Mrs. D. M. Wright, of 5, Married Quarters, Preston Barracks, Brighton, after visiting the hon. Member for Brighton in his office at a time advertised that he will see any constituent, was visited by the R.S.M. and the adjutant and informed, on the C.O.'s instructions, that she had committed an offence in visiting the local Member of Parliament; whether he is aware that she was questioned as to what she had seen him about; how was it known that she had been to see him; and by what authority has the C.O. issued instructions that nobody living in married quarters may consult their Member of Parliament or visit the local secretary of S.S.A.F.A. to seek advice concerning the present conditions in Preston Barracks.

Mr. Shinwell

I am aware that Mrs. Wright was questioned by the adjutant and the regimental sergeant major concerning her visit to the hon. Member, on the instructions of the garrison commander, who was under the entirely mistaken impression that he was entitled to be informed before the wife of a soldier placed a complaint before a Member of Parliament. This, of course, is not so, and I should like to tale this opportunity of expressing regret for the action which was taken in this case. I am not aware that instructions have been issued to the effect suggested in the last part of the Question, although a letter was addressed by the garrison commander to all married families impressing upon them the fact that he could probably assist them in many queries which might otherwise go to S.S.A.F.A. direct and that it was desirable for him to be approached in the first instance.

Mr. Teeling

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply, may I ask him to make quite certain that there will be no victimisation of this woman or any other woman at that centre, and, furthermore, would he be kind enough to point out that the S.S.A.F.A. actually receives a grant from the War Office to assist similar cases and state whether, in his opinion, the S.S.A.F.A. is doing very good work which ought to be encouraged?

Mr. Shinwell

By all means; this association has always done valuable work since its inception. But I am distressed about this case, and appropriate action is to be taken.