HC Deb 24 April 1975 vol 890 cc361-2W
Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether the 2,000 words prepared by the pro and anti sides in the referendum will be delivered to all Service men at home and overseas.

Mr. William Rodgers

Yes, so far as is practicable given the timetable and the wide dispersal and operational commit- ments of the Armed Services. There should be few exceptions.

Mr. Marten

asked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) whether any referendum campaigning is being undertaken with official consent amongst Her Majesty's Forces overseas: and if he will give details:

(2) what facilities are available to the two sides to campaign over the referendum amongst Her Majesty's Forces overseas.

Mr. William Rodgers

We have in mind that broadcasting time on the British Forces Broadcasting Service should be allocated to both sides. Arrangements will also be made through Service channels to distribute to all Service men a copy of the popular version of the White Paper on Membership of the European Community (Cmnd 6003) and of the statement by the two sides which the Government have agreed to deliver to every household. Otherwise, official facilities and premises will not be made available for campaigning purposes.