HC Deb 17 October 1950 vol 478 cc1868-9
32. Brigadier Head

asked the Secretary of State for War why British soldiers are not allowed to box against Germans, in view of the fact that such restrictions are not applied to other sports.

Mr. Strachey

At present British soldiers in Germany are not allowed to engage in games involving individual combat, such as boxing, wrestling or fencing, with Germans. This rule was made in order to avoid the possibility of disturbances at such games. Its relaxation is a matter which we shall leave to the discretion of the Commander-in-Chief, British Army of the Rhine.

Mr. McAdden

Was this important decision taken after due and proper consultation with the right hon. Lady the Minister of National Insurance.