§ 9. Mr. Patrick Maitlandasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that his undertaking to the hon. Member for Lanark on 23rd June, 1953, regarding strict observance of restrictions on his Department's use of the Roberton training area has been violated repeatedly, including several times in recent weeks; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. J. R. H. HutchisonYes, Sir, for reasons which have already been explained in correspondence, there have been some infringements. My right 1443 hon. Friend is anxious that the conditions should be fully observed and stringent instructions have been given to prevent further grounds for complaint.
§ Mr. MaitlandIs my hon. Friend aware that five recent breaches of my right hon. Friend's undertaking, with three similar breaches last year, have compromised the good name of the Army and the Department? Can he say whether disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible? Can he explain how ammunition was issued to troops who were supposed to have been instructed that there would be no firing?
§ Mr. HutchisonMy hon. Friend must not make a mountain out of a molehill. I have given a categorical assurance that we intend to eliminate these (infringements. It is making a mountain out of a molehill to complain so bitterly if, instead of seven days' notice being given, only 6½ days' notice was given, or if only 100 rounds of blank ammunition are fired.
§ Mr. MaitlandIs my hon. Friend aware that flocks have been scattered and ewes separated from newly-born lambs, and that this is a violation of the undertakings which were given? Is he aware that the Army is trying to hush this up and that the Army claims agent last year advised farmers not to come to me as their Member of Parliament at all?