§ 25. Mr. Monroasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the reorganisation of the Scottish infantry.
§ 55. Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Defence what consultations are taking place regarding the reorganisation of Scottish infantry regiments; and when he will announce details of the reorganisation.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Army (Mr. James Boyden)Full details have already been given in the detailed statement on infantry reorganisation published in the OFFICIAL REPORT on 11th May. The present Lowland and Highland Brigades will form the new Scottish Division. Consultations are now taking place on the various methods by which this reorganisation will be implemented.
§ Mr. MonroWill the Minister reaffirm the statement given to me on 11th May in this House that the new organisation will not in any way affect the individual eight Scottish regiments?
§ Mr. BoydenIt will affect them, but I certainly maintain what was said on 11th May.
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithWill the Minister bear in mind the very strong territorial connections between all Scottish regiments and different areas of Scotland? Does he recognise that any attempt to reduce the number of regiments could have a very serious effect on recruitment in Scotland and would be very much resented by Scottish people?
§ Mr. BoydenI note what the hon. Member says, but the reorganisation is being made so as to make it easier to reduce or to increase the numbers.
§ Mr. PowellDoes the hon. Gentleman deny that the principal motive of this reorganisation—whatever he has just said —is to facilitate the reduction and not the increase of the Army?
§ Mr. BoydenNo, Sir. The right hon. Gentleman will no doubt be able to discuss this more fully in the near future.
§ Mr. MonroOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter again on the Adjournment.