§ Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that 13 boy soldiers absconded on 22nd January, 1957, from the Bridge of Don Barracks, Aberdeen, and that some returned; who the boys are; how many are still missing; why they absconded; what their living and other conditions in the barracks were and are; what complaints 145W had been made by or against the boys; how the boys who returned have been dealt with; and how those who have not returned will be dealt with when found.
§ Mr. HareTwo bandsmen and twelve band boys absented themselves from the Brigade Bandmaster's Unit of the Highland Brigade which is located at the Depot of the Gordon Highlanders, Aberdeen. Thirteen have returned to their unit and one is still absent. An inquiry into the reasons for their absence is now being held and no disciplinary action will be considered until this is completed. In the meantime, I cannot answer the remainder of the hon. and learned Member's questions without possible risk of prejudicing the outcome of the inquiry.