47. Mr. Vaneasked the Prime Minister whether he will arrange that the selection of His Majesty's Ministers to take part in the series of recruiting speeches for the Territorial Army to be given over the B.B.C. will be made only from those who have themselves seen active service as members of His Majesty's Armed Forces.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
Mr. VaneWould not the right hon. Gentleman agree that these appeals would have a much greater effectiveness if those making them, like the right hon. Gentleman, had themselves had some 920 experience of those rather special duties which they are urging others to undertake?
§ The Prime MinisterNot necessarily. I think it is advisable that authoritative speeches on this subject should be made by Members of the Government who hold particular responsibilities.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIn view of the national character of this appeal, is it intended to confine these broadcasts to Ministers, or will invitations be extended to Members of other parties?
§ The Prime MinisterThat is another question; perhaps the hon. Member will put it down.
Vice-Admiral TaylorDoes the Prime Minister really consider it advisable to have pacifist Members of the Government asking for recruits?
§ The Prime MinisterNo one has suggested that they should.