§ Mr. Murrayasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that hon. Members are being put to inconvenience and increased correspondence, because it is not generally known that any persons in the Services should first make application to his or her commanding officer before writing to their Member of Parliament; and will he have this matter brought to the notice of all persons in the Services.
§ Mr. LawsonI am quite aware of the inconvenience and extra correspondence referred to, but the procedure for redressing grievances through the proper 782W Service channels is clearly laid down in the Regulations, and these are frequently brought to the notice of all ranks. I do not think there is any general ignorance of the correct procedure. I am, however, glad of this opportunity to emphasise that it is in the interests of all concerned that Service personnel should represent their cases in the manner laid down in the Regulations, thereby ensuring fair and prompt investigation by the authority having the power to take action. I should welcome any assistance from hon. Members in encouraging such action by their Service correspondents.