10. Mr. Baker Whiteasked the Secretary of State for War what steps are being taken, other than normal courts of inquiry, to reduce the number of fatal and non-fatal accidents on training in the British Army of the Rhine.
§ Mr. HeadThe attention of all Commanders in the British Army of the Rhine was drawn to this problem by a letter on 22nd August this year which outlined the causes of traffic accidents and how to avoid them. Steps have also been taken to prevent avoidable accidents during exercises. Finally, strong disciplinary action is taken against those responsible for offences against traffic discipline.
Mr. Baker WhiteWould my right hon. Friend agree that the figure of 54 killed and over 2,000 injured during training between 1st April and 1st October fully justifies the action he has taken and any further action that is necessary?
§ Mr. HeadYes, Sir. I am aware of the recent increase in accidents. That has been due partly to an increase in numbers and partly to an increase in intensity in training; but these two factors do not entirely cover the matter, and I hope that the measures now taken will stop the trend.
11. Mr. Baker Whiteasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that supplies of petrol to armoured units in the British Army of the Rhine are now so strictly rationed as to make even elementary training with vehicles impossible; and if he will take steps to ensure that sufficient petrol is forthwith made available for the maintenance of training, and the efficient operation of armoured units.
§ Mr. HeadThe collective training period in the British Army of the Rhine is now finished. The present petrol rationing period runs from 1st November this year to 31st March, 1953. During this period, units will be concentrating on individual training and no major movement of armoured formations is due to take place. Despite the reduction in petrol consumption units should be able to carry out normal driver training on all types of vehicles including armoured fighting vehicles.