HC Deb 09 December 1959 vol 615 cc492-3
9. Mr. Lipton

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the removal of the Guards to behind the railings at Buckingham Palace is permanent; and what economy has been effected thereby.

Mr. Soames

The new arrangements, which are permanent, have not produced any economies, nor were they intended so to do.

Mr. Lipton

Will not the Secretary of State for War agree that this ignoble order to retreat behind the railings is not in accord with the illustrious traditions of the Guards? Could not some other way be found of dealing with the female nitwits and others who were getting in their way?

Mr. Soames

That is the type of supplementary question on a Question of this character to which the House is accustomed from the hon. Member. It was a sensible move which was decided upon, and I think that it is of benefit all round.