HC Deb 22 November 1955 vol 546 cc1247-8
21. Mr. G. M. Thomson

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will make a statement on the general welfare arrangements for Christmas and the New Year which are being made for British troops stationed in Korea.

Mr. Head

A special grant is made available for extras, and there are special concessions for parcels. Detailed arrangements are left to the commanders and the troops themselves, and in my experience they are usually very good at it.

Mr. Thomson

Does the Secretary of State feel that that is an adequate answer to parents who are anxious about this matter? Is he aware that these soldiers are serving in winter conditions of great severity, and in general conditions which are very demoralising? Could he not tell us more?

Mr. Head

Yes, Sir. On various occasions I have seen soldiers in conditions of discomfort, but I believe, frankly, that they make better arrangements themselves than can be made by welfare officers.