§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Defence for what length of time young army recruits of 15 to 18-yearsold have been asked their views on nuclear weapons; if recruits from all parts of the United Kingdom are asked such questions; and how many have been asked this question.
§ Mr. LeeApplicants from all parts of the United Kingdom have for many years been asked about their attitudes to a range of topics which may or may not include their views on nuclear weapons. As the line of questioning is left to the discretion of the interviewer, it is not possible to state how many applicants have been asked about nuclear weapons.
§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many young army recruits have been refused enlistment because they were not in favour of nuclear weapons.
§ Mr. LeeAn applicant's general attitude to nuclear weapons is never, in itself, a bar to his being enlisted into the Army.
§ Mr. Hoyleasked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) if a question about attitudes to nuclear weapons is asked of 15 to 18-year-olds wishing to join the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force;
(2) if a question about attitudes to nuclear weapons is asked of all recruits, regardless of age, to the armed forces.
§ Mr. LeeThere is no requirement for applicants to the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army and airmen/airwomen entry to the Royal Air Force to be asked questions about their attitude to nuclear weapons. However, it is possible that recruiting officers may ask such questions, irrespective of the age of the applicant, in the course of discussion of a range of topics. All applicants for officer entry to the Royal Air Force are asked about nuclear issues.