§ Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many applications are received on average from serving sailors, soldiers or airmen who wish to stand for election to public office.
§ Mr. HayhoeFour candidates applied to leave the Services to stand at the 1979 general election, two in 1974 and three in 1970. In considering such applications Ministers are advised by the Advisory Committee on Service Candidates. In addition, serving personnel occasionally apply to the Ministry of Defence for permission to stand at local government elections; on average about six such applications are made each year.