HC Deb 14 July 1953 vol 517 c1875
10. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for War to what extent live entertainment is now being provided for British troops in the Canal Zone and the Far East.

Mr. Head

So far this year four parties have toured the Canal Zone; two parties have been to Malaya and a third is there at the present time; and two parties from this country have been to Korea. In addition, of course, our men in Korea have seen parties from the other Commonwealth countries. Further parties to go out this year are three to the Canal-Zone, two to Malaya and two to Korea. The latter parties will also perform in Japan and Hong Kong. I would take this opportunity of paying tribute to the Combined Services Entertainment Advisory Committee who have given great help, especially in raising the standard of performances.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that there will be no falling off in amount this year as compared with the amount of entertainment provided last year, when there was a welcome boom?

Mr. Head

The first thing to go for is quality and to send as many as we possibly can, but to send a concert party to Korea is a very expensive matter.