§ 19. Sir John Mellorasked the Secretary of State for War in what circumstances other ranks are permitted, or required, to wear civilian clothes while driving motor cars on duty; from what source 1986 such clothes have been supplied; and at whose expense.
§ Mr. ShinwellIn special circumstances, when it is considered desirable, non-commissioned officers and other ranks can be required to wear civilian clothes at duty. In these cases the clothes are provided at public expense either from ordnance stocks or if necessary by purchase.
§ Sir J. MellorWho provides the coupons for this extravagance? Will the right hon. Gentleman say what are the special circumstances to which he refers, and who are driven about by these soldiers?
§ Mr. ShinwellIf the hon. Member wants an example, one is the special investigation branch of the Corps of Royal Military Police.
§ Sir J. MellorWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether that is the only instance? Is not he himself driven about in this way?
§ Mr. ShinwellIf the hon. Member is getting at me, that is a different matter. If he asks whether the driver who drives the car which I use is in mufti, the answer is "Yes," because unless I am engaged on strictly military duties—visiting a Command or a military depot, or some official ceremony—I prefer that he should be dressed in mufti.
§ Sir J. MellorIs not the King's uniform good enough for the driver of the car of the Secretary of State for War?
§ Mr. ShinwellI have as high a regard for the King's uniform as the hon. Member.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyThe right hon. Gentleman has never worn it.