HC Deb 30 April 1958 vol 587 cc362-3
22 and 23. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) if he will state the nature of the equipment supplied to a private bird-watching expedition conducted by Mr. Guy Mountfort; whether such equipment was surplus to War Office requirements; and what was the amount of payment received by his Department;

(2) what representations were made to his Department, and by whom, for a supply of equipment for a bird-watching expedition; and whether such supplies were made with his consent.

Mr. Soames

The supplies were some insect repellant and a small quantity of packed rations. Because of their special packing, some things of this sort made for the Army are convenient for the use of scientific expeditions, and it is our practice to help occasionally by supplying small quantities on repayment. A request on behalf of the expedition to Spain was made by Field Marshal Lord Alanbrooke. The total cost, including carriage and departmental expenses, was £12 8s. 5d., and this was paid by the expedition.

Mr. Shinwell

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, if I or any other hon. Member wishes to purchase certain equipment from the War Office, such as field glasses, rucksacks, fishing tackle or whatever is available, we can do so without going to the Ministry of Supply? Is it customary to do this? Further, may I ask him if he is aware that, in spite of the intervention of my hon. Friend the Member for Cardiff, South-East (Mr. Callaghan), on the Front Bench, bird-watching expeditions are not included in the programme of the Labour Party?

Mr. Soames

This was an ornithological expedition, and if the right hon. Gentleman has in mind leading an international scientific expedition somewhere and would like the help of the War Office, perhaps we might help.

Mr. Callaghan

Is the Secretary of State for War aware that the reason why there is no reference to bird-watching in the programme of the Labour Party is that we have plenty to do to keep our finger on the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Easington (Mr. Shinwell)?

Mr. Shinwell

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Do I understand, Sir, that an hon. Member on the Front Opposition Bench has a right to make a statement of that kind, and in public, that the Front Bench is now occupied keeping its finger on my activities? Do I understand that that is in accordance with Parliamentary propriety?

Mr. Speaker

I understood the remark to be jocular. It certainly could not be applied in its literal sense, and it was either metaphorical or jocular. I do not see any reason for me to intervene in a matter of that sort. These exchanges are common among hon. Members, and I do not think it was ill-natured, either.

Several Hon. Members rose

—

Mr. Shinwell

Further to that point of order. May I direct your attention, Mr. Speaker, to the fact that my hon. Friend, like many Scotsmen, jokes with considerable difficulty?

Mr. Speaker

I should be the last to make a pronouncement about a sense of humour, knowing the reputation which my race has in this matter.

Mr. Kershaw

May I ask my right hon. Friend if he is aware that, if the right hon. Member for Easington (Mr. Shinwell) wishes to have any assistance in keeping his eyes on some of the pretty queer birds on his own side, we will give him every assistance?

Mr. Speaker

I think we had better pass to the next Question.

Sir T. Moore

On a point of order. May I ask you, Mr. Speaker, to advise hon. Members, and particularly some right hon. and hon. Members opposite, to keep their domestic quarrels outside the House of Commons?

Mr. Speaker

It is no concern of mine to do that.