HC Deb 05 November 1976 vol 918 cc724-5W
Mr. Clemitson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether it is his policy to allow the firing of rifles containing rubber pellets by schoolchildren in the course of visits by representatives of the Army to schools.

Mr. Duffy

Visits to schools by members of the Army are made with the consent of the education authorities and headmasters concerned. The aim of such visits as took place in Luton on 6th and 7th October is to present a realistic picture of Army activities, and this naturally involves displaying weapons in current use, which are, of course, modified to render them safe. Appropriate safety precautions are taken and there is adequate supervision at all times.