HC Deb 13 May 1971 vol 817 cc604-5
15. Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of State for Defence what steps he is taking to ensure that information about careers in the Armed Forces is widely disseminated in schools, colleges, universities, etc.; whether he is satisfied that sufficient emphasis is placed on the ideals of patriotism and service in such a career; and if he will make a statement.

Lord Balniel

All three Services have careers staff and liaison officers who are active in schools, colleges and universities. Due emphasis is placed on the ideals of patriotism and service.

Mr. Stokes

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Is he in a position to tell us about the 18 local education authorities which were not fully co-operating with the Government in this respect? As he promised to review the position, may I ask whether he has done so and will he tell us the names of those authorities still not fully complying with the Government's wishes?

Lord Balniel

Yes. I undertook to review the position in the light of the 18 local authorities which were not cooperating fully. I am happy to say that discussions are now proceeding between Ministry of Defence officials and local authorities to see whether facilities for Service career officers can be improved. I am hopeful that they will be improved.

Mr. Tebbit

Will my hon. Friend take particular care to put pressure on the Harlow authority which put every possible obstruction in the way? It even banned the bringing of careers vans on to council property. This is an absolutely scandalous state of affairs. I should be most grateful if my hon. Friend could assist me in pressurising this council into common sense.

Lord Balniel

This must be a matter for the local education authority to decide. But it is agreed between all parties in the House that the service rendered by the Armed Forces is of crucial importance, so I hope that the authorities will co-operate.