HC Deb 05 May 1953 vol 515 cc179-80
6. Major Anstruther-Gray

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the use, both in the Press and on hoardings, of pictures of famous regiments for the purpose of advertising goods for sale; and what contributions are made to regimental funds for such pictures.

Mr. Head

I welcome the use of pictures of famous regiments in commercial advertisements, provided that the details are accurate. As far as I know no contributions are made to regimental funds.

Major Anstruther-Gray

Will my right hon. Friend not consider inviting contributions to regimental funds, as advertisers would no doubt be only too happy to make such contributions?

Mr. Head

If we asked for that, it might act as a deterrent. These advertisements are a very useful form of free publicity for the Army.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Scottish whisky firms who exploit these regiments would be quite prepared to give a substantial sum out of their substantial profits if they were only asked for it?

Mr. Head

I am not aware of that. Whisky firms exploit a lot of things, including dogs, and it would not be fair to expect a bonus from everybody who uses a soldier in an advertisement.

Mr. G. Jeger

Every time a soldier is used for advertising a particular product does the Minister get a sample in order to satisfy himself of its quality?

Mr. Head

That would be highly irregular.