§ 38. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for War what arrangements are being made for compulsory boxing in the Army.
§ Mr. ShinwellBoxing is an excellent form of training for the recruit and is encouraged in the Army. All recruits are taught to box if they wish. Most young men are anxious to represent their units if selected in the many competitions which are organised to encourage both novices and experienced boxers.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesDid the Minister make a statement in Berlin indicating that this was a new reform in military training, and will he say exactly how this is suitable for modern warfare?
§ Mr. ShinwellIt is desirable that the boys should be encouraged to undergo various physical exercises and, personally, I regard boxing as a healthy sport and recreation which I am anxious to encourage. All that I said was, quite facetiously —in the context it was naturally facetious —that I should like to make boxing compulsory in the Army, but I am afraid that I cannot get my own way.
§ Mr. MikardoDoes my right hon. Friend realise that the relevance of boxing to military training is that it teaches one to love one's enemies?
§ Mr. ShinwellIt is quite possible, I believe, to love one's enemies and yet give an occasional straight left.
§ Mr. RankinCan my right hon. Friend say if this is meant as a substitute for the atom bomb and other recognised methods of conducting warfare?