HC Deb 25 January 1977 vol 924 cc514-5W
32. Mr. English

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether all officers of the highest rank in the three Services should receive ministerial clearance for their published views on political subjects; and what disciplinary action is taken against them if they do not ask for such clearance when they should.

Mr. Mulley

Under existing regulations Service personnel are not permitted to engage in political controversy. Prior departmental clearance is required for public speeches and lectures and material intended for publication when these are concerned with official matters. In the case of the most senior officers it has long been the practice for ministerial agreement to be sought before any public statements are made.

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