HC Deb 02 December 1952 vol 508 cc1272-3
37. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Secretary of State for War to make a statement arising out of the appeal in the case of Regina v. Tucker, particularly with reference to the lax method of sergeants' mess catering accountancy disclosed by this case.

Mr. Head

The court-martial disclosed that there had been a lack of supervision in the sergeants' mess concerned. I am in communication with the local command to see that the necessary steps are taken to put this right.

Mr. Bellenger

Has the right hon. Gentleman read the verdict and views of the Court of Appeal on this matter? Do not they show, prima facie at any rate, that there is considerable laxity in the matter of sergeants' mess accountancy? Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that there is a wider implication than the limited sphere to which he has referred?

Mr. Head

Yes, Sir, I am not satisfied in this particular case that matters were being properly accounted for, but we have taken it up with the local command and are also considering these wider aspects as well.

Mr. Nicholson

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied with the conduct of the original court-martial?

38. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been directed to the courts-martial appeal court's judgment in the case of Regina v. Tucker; and what action he proposes to take to amend the Manual of Military Law.

Mr. Head

Yes, Sir. This matter is already under close study and an appropriate amendment to the Manual of Military Law will be made as soon as possible.