§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask His Majesty's Government whether what is known as the scorched earth policy carried out by the United Nations forces retreating in Korea is decided by the United Nations, or is within the prerogative of the Commander-in-Chief: and whether His Majesty's Government have been consulted with regard to this policy.]
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (LORD HENDERSON)My Lords, His Majesty's Government's information is that United Nations forces have not adopted any scorched earth policy in 1066 Korea. It is true that installations of specific military value to the enemy have been destroyed where this has been rendered absolutely necessary by military requirements. Particular care has been taken to ensure the safety of public utilities when at all possible.