HC Deb 02 May 1950 vol 474 cc181-2W
102. Mr. Channon

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the increasing tendency of the Army authorities not to allow young soldiers leave on Saturday afternoons to play football for their old school clubs; and whether, in view of the desirability of encouraging their participation in such activities to the maximum degree, he will take steps to see that greater latitude will be allowed in this connection.

Mr. Strachey

I am not aware of the tendency to which the hon. Member refers. Commanding officers have full powers to grant men 48 hours' leave under current regulations at weekends, or to permit them to be absent from their units to play football, or for other purposes on Saturday afternoons provided they are not required for military duty