§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to introduce mess services common to all ranks; and if he will make a statement. [188570]
§ Mr. IngramAlthough there are initiatives exploring the possibilities of combining the catering support facilities on bases, there are no plans to introduce messes common to all ranks. The separate messes for officers, senior non-commissioned officers and junior ranks allow individuals to relax and interact within their respective peer groups, and they remain an integral feature of Service life.