§ 5. Sir Cyril Osborneasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will now make a statement on his recent inquiries into the corruption of young guardsmen by a well-to-do vice ring promoting homosexuality in the Household Cavalry and the Welsh Guards; and what action he is proposing to take.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Army (Mr. James Boyden)I have nothing to add to the reply I gave to the hon. Gentleman on 25th October.—[Vol. 751, c. 484.]
§ Sir C. OsborneThat reply said that the Department was investigating the matter. What I want to know is when will the report be ready, will it be published, and will the Minister confirm that there is truth behind these very serious allegations?
§ Mr. BoydenThe hon. Gentleman is incorrect. The reply I gave was that the inquiry was being conducted by the Metropolitan Police. It is not yet complete. The Army is assisting, and I should have thought that the House would consider this to be the right way to do it.
§ Mr. ShinwellWill my hon. Friend expedite the inquiry, because many rumours are flying about which are not likely to encourage recruits to join the Services. I am serious about this. I cannot discount the rumours, or vouch for what is happening. The inquiry should be expedited.
§ Mr. BoydenI agree with my right hon. Friend. That is what I will do. I am as worried as he is.