§ 1. Mr. Fitchasked the Secretary of State for War if he will reconsider his policy not to pay the cost of transporting back to their homes the bodies of soldiers killed outside the United Kingdom during peace time.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. John Profumo)No, Sir. I would refer the hon. Gentleman to the Answers given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Defence to the hon. Gentleman the Member for East Ham, North (Mr. Prentice) on 10th February, 1960.
§ Mr. FitchThat reply was very unsatisfactory. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is feeling among people of all political opinions that his policy in this respect is lacking in humanity? Will he consult his Service colleagues with a view to revising it?
§ Mr. ProfumoI recognise that there is very wide feeling in this matter, but the policy is one which has been followed by all the Services since the First World War, and I do not consider that a change at this moment would be justified.
§ Mr. MasonThat does not necessarily mean that it is right or humane. Why cannot the War Office soften up to this demand? Scores of requests have been made by parents who have lost their boys abroad. This has been raised dozens of times in the House. Both sides of the House agree that the War Office ought to recognise these cases. The cost will not cripple the country. 380 Why cannot the War Office recognise this genuine and sincere demand?
§ Mr. ProfumoI have said that I recognise the sincerity of feeling on all sides about this matter. I merely called the House's attention to the fact that this is a policy which has been in being for a very long time.
§ Mr. ProfumoThe hon. Gentleman asked whether the War Office would soften its heart. This is a matter which can be dealt with only on an inter-Service basis, all the Services included. It would then be a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Defence.
§ Mr. FitchIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I will seek your permission, Mr. Speaker, to raise the matter on the Adjournment.