§ 53. Mr. Alportasked the Minister of Defence to what extent, in view of recent court-martial decisions, new instructions have been issued by the Service Departments relative to the duties of armed sentries; and whether he is satisfied with the present provisions of the Manual of Military Law on this subject.
§ Mr. ShinwellLetters have been sent by the War Office and Air Ministry to all Commanders-in-Chief for the purpose of clarifying and where necessary amplifying the existing orders for armed sentries. A certain amount of discretion must, of course, be given to Commanders-in-Chief overseas and in areas of active operations. Instructions have also been given that special care is to be taken to ensure that sentries clearly understand their duties. The Admiralty are proposing to issue instructions on this matter as soon as possible.