§ 24. Mr. Sydney Irvingasked the Secretary of State for War who authorised the special reception for 23604106 Rifleman Williams when he reported for National Service at the Winchester depot of the Kings Royal Rifle Corps on 22nd January; and what he anticipates will be the effect on morale and recruitment.
§ Mr. SoamesI would refer the hon. Member to the Answer I gave on 28th January to my hon. Friend the Member for Wycombe (Mr. John Hall).
§ Mr. IrvingIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this was a most unsatisfactory reply and conflicts entirely with Press reports of its relations with his Department in this matter? Is not the truth that his Department made a complete ass of itself in this case? Would it not he more graceful for him to admit that? Will he confirm the rumour that he has promised to write a foreword to the forthcoming book of memoirs expected on this?
§ Mr. SoamesI would assure the hon. Member that there is absolutely no question of publicity being sought by the Army for recruiting purposes in this connection. The whole history was set out in the Answer and I do not think it needs repeating.