HC Deb 29 July 1952 vol 504 cc1247-8
16. Mr. Wigg

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he authorised the Officer Commanding No. 4 Training Battalion, Royal Army Ordnance Corps, to close a right of way between the married quarter at Blackdown and the main shopping area; and what answer has been returned to the petition of protest which has been presented to the officer commanding troops by the married families concerned.

Mr. Head

There is no public right of way. The path was closed because of children causing serious damage to the barracks and to the garden of the war memorial. The officer commanding troops, Blackdown, has replied to the petition, explaining the reasons for the action of the commanding officer of this unit.

Mr. Wigg

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether any disciplinary action was taken against the soldiers of the wives who made the protest?

Mr. Head

No, Sir, not so far as I know. I would point out to the hon. Gentleman, who is interested in these matters, that the children broke 32 windows, broke into the paint shop and rolled pots of paint down the hill.