§ Mr. MarlowTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence (1) to what extent military personnel in corps and units not holding Army horses participate in hunting and polo during duty time;
(2) if he will take action to ensure, that the benefits of equestrian training bestowed by hunting or playing polo in those units which hold Army horses are shared equally between officers and other ranks.
§ Mr. FreemanMilitary personnel of all ranks serving in mounted units have the opportunity to derive the benefits of equestrian training afforded by hunting when this is done using military horses. However, hunting also takes place as a recreational activity on the same basis as polo and other sports in duty time, other duties permitting, at the commanding officer's discretion. In these circumstances, privately owned horses only are used and personnel in mounted and non-mounted units participate largely at their own expense. It is for individuals to decide whether they wish to spend their money in this way.