HC Deb 26 March 1957 vol 567 cc964-5
41. Mr. Peyton

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will issue an instruction to his Department that the word "civilianisation" be not used.

Mr. John Hare

If my hon. Friend or anybody else can suggest a shorter, more elegant single word to replace this ugly but time-saving term. I will gladly consider it.

Mr. Peyton

Surely, that will not do? May I ask my right hon. Friend when it was that he conceived this sudden respect for the single word, and does he not think that it would be altogether more fitting if he lent his support to a campaign for the dejargonisation of the language?

Mr. Hare

I would go even further. If my hon. Friend can suggest two words to replace this word, I will consider his suggestion.

Mr. Shinwell

When was the term "civilianisation" added to the vocabulary at the War Office? Was it in use in my time?

Mr. Hare

The right hon. Gentleman was not, I think, quite as progressive as we are in these days.

Major Legge-Bourke

Would my right hon. Friend bear in mind that it might be possible to use the word "civilising"?

Mr. Hare

I always listen very carefully to any suggestions made by my hon. and gallant Friend.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Would the Minister consider substituting the word "liquidation"?

Mr. Hare

I do not think that would be a very helpful suggestion.