HC Deb 16 November 1966 vol 736 c425
27. Mr. Judd

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what official records are now kept of requests for welfare assistance by Royal Navy personnel; and what improved arrangements are planned for the welfare of the wives of Royal Navy personnel serving overseas.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

Very full and detailed records are kept by the Family Welfare Organisation, and by ships. Next month I expect to have the report of a working party on the Family Welfare Organisation, which has given particular attention to the welfare of naval wives whose husbands are serving overseas.

Mr. Judd

Would my hon. Friend agree that the keeping of individual Service records about such requests acts as a disincentive to seeking help with family problems? In view of the mental and emotional strain put on Service wives, should not Service men be reassured that these records will not be held against them?

Mr. Mallalieu

These records are certainly not kept for the purpose of holding anything against anybody. They are kept for the purpose of trying to help families when they need help.