HC Deb 15 February 1949 vol 461 cc138-9W
42. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has considered the report of the speech made by Field-Marshal Lord Wilson to Army apprentices on Tuesday, 1st February, sent to him by the hon. Member for West Fife; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Shinwell

Field-Marshal Lord Wilson no longer holds any military appointment, and he is not subject to the restraint imposed by the King's Regulations on the making of politcal speeches by serving officers. The audience in this case was a military one, and on such occasions I think it is desirable that the speaker, whoever he may be, should avoid political issues.