HC Deb 19 March 1956 vol 550 cc822-3
37. Mr. Dodds

asked the Secretary of State for War how far the letter he has sent to all Army units about "spit and polish practices which should be forbidden is of that type of Army letter which is to be regarded by units as an instruction and how far it is to be regarded as a suggestion only and therefore left to the discretion of individual commanding officers as to whether or not the reforms are introduced.

The Under-Secretary of State for War (Mr. Fitzroy Maclean)

The purpose of the letter was to lay down the general policy. Its detailed execution is left to commands.

Mr. Dodds

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the statement, which was welcomed in this House, was not so warmly welcomed at Catterick, where it is claimed that the recruits really like "bull"? In view of that, could the hon. Gentleman arrange for a referendum to be held among other ranks at Catterick to clear up the matter? May I also ask what steps the War Office has taken to clear this matter up and to get it into the heads of the "brass hats" that the Army of the future—the technical Army—needs intelligent orders and instructions for intelligent men?

Mr. Maclean

The policy has been quite clearly laid down and we feel that its execution can safely be entrusted to unit and formation commanders.

Mr. Chetwynd

Is it true that at the entrance to Catterick Camp a large notice board has been put up saying, "Beware of the bull"?

Mr. Maclean

I understand that one newspaper has offered a prize of half a guinea for the best "bull" stories.

Mr. D. Jones

Do I understand from the hon. Gentleman that if we bring to his attention cases in which the intention of the War Office is not being carried out, disciplinary action will be taken against the commanding officer concerned?

Mr. Maclean

Certainly, Sir.