HC Deb 29 July 1952 vol 504 cc1243-5
11. Mr. Beswick

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that on 19th July at a fête organised in aid of various organisations, including the Heston and Isleworth Conservative Association, there were performances by the band of the Coldstream Guards and other displays by a contingent from the same regiment; and what regulations have been made dealing with such participation by Army units in affairs organised wholly or partly in aid of political parties.

Mr. Head

This engagement was accepted by the band of the Coldstream Guards on the understanding that this was a charity fête which had no political significance. The attendance of the band is governed by Queen's Regulations, paragraphs 541 and 1434, and is also dealt with in an Army Council Instruction.

Mr. Beswick

But does the Secretary of State agree that this could not have been an entirely charitable affair since the Conservative Party stood to benefit from it? After all, though I know these regulations have been in force some years, would not the Secretary of State now agree it may be reasonable to have a look at an arrangement which compels men in uniform to go to help to collect money for political objects with which they disagree?

Mr. Head

I understand that this fête was held for the National Lifeboat Institution, the Scouts, the local church, etcetera, and I have seen the letter received by the Coldstream Guards, which gave a specific undertaking that it was not for political purposes. I cannot tell what actually happened at the fête because I was not there.

Mr. Beswick

Is it not rather unfortunate that the "etcetera" includes the Heston and Isleworth Conservative Association, which on the sale of programmes stood to benefit from this attendance by the Army.

Mr. Head

All I have seen is the application from this fate for this band, and a definite undertaking that it was nonpolitical in character was given in the letter, and, therefore, I think there was justification for accepting it.

Mr. R. Harris

Would my right hon. Friend make it clear that the usual commercial fee of over 100 guineas was paid for the performance of this band; that the Spring Grove Conservative Association contributed materially to the success of this fête, which was in aid of a dozen well known charities; and that the Association profited to the extent of only £40—a trivial sum compared to the total amount raised of over four figures?