HC Deb 30 November 1964 vol 703 cc23-4
30. Brigadier Clarke

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what was the cost of providing a military guard at Chequers for the week ending the 21st November.

Mr. Mulley

The only extra expense incurred in employing Royal Military Police at Chequers was their movement from their normal stations, which amounted to £40 10s. 0d.

Brigadier Clarke

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that many people considered this a very unnecessary guard to look after a handful of Ministers? At that time—I repeat, at that time—no one wanted to shoot them. Today, of course, it is different.

Mr. Mulley

I am quite satisfied that the military police even today would be able to provide adequate security. While I know that the hon. and gallant Gentleman has not very much time for Her Majesty's Ministers, he should perhaps have some regard for the safety of the Chiefs of Staff, who were also at Chequers.

Mr. Solomons

Arising from this exercise, would my right hon. Friend be prepared to work out the cost of the grooms and batmen who dance attendance upon the wives of senior officers at the Harrow and Eton cricket match?

Mr. Speaker

Order. That is intriguing, but it does not arise from this Question.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Was not the purpose of this extraordinary guard to protect Ministers from a possible putsch by the Young Socialists?

Mr. Mulley

I think that the hon. Gentleman could do better than that if he really tried.