§ Mr. Mikardoasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will take steps to ensure that the remaining period to be spent in the Army by men due for early demobilisation is not taken up by disciplinary routines which cannot have any subsequent value either to the men or to the Service.
§ Mr. LawsonI am not sure what my hon. Friend has in mind. If he is referring to routine duties, such as maintenance of cleanliness in and around barracks, care of equipment and personal clothing, and general fatigues, these are essential duties, properly shared by all soldiers of the unit. But routine duties occupy only a part of the soldier's time. Men awaiting release are made available for agricultural work, clearance of battle areas and other types of employment necessary in the public interest. The Army Education Scheme is also available to provide valuable instruction and occupation and under this scheme preference is given as far as possible to men who are due for early release.