HC Deb 04 February 1926 vol 191 c359W
Mr. AMMON

asked the Secretary of State for War by what authority two Scottish pipers took part in the memorial service to King Charles I?

Mr. MACLEAN

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the presence of the pipers and buglers of the Scots Guards at the memorial service held at the statue of King Charles I on 30th January; from whom the application was received, and by whom permission was granted for their appearance; if this procedure is to be continued in this respect: and, if so, whether the practice of the presence of British troops will be made general in respect to memorial services held for other historical or non-historical persons?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

Application for the attendance of the pipers and buglers was received by the 1st Battalion Scots Guards direct from the President of the Royal Martyr Church Union. As an order had been issued by the General Officer Commanding, London District, in February, 1924, in consequence of a similar incident in that year, expressly forbidding troops to take part in any service of this nature, the application should have been refused, but the adjutant of the battalion was on leave at the time, and the officer acting for him overlooked the order, and gave his consent.