§ Mr. Nicholas WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent representations he has received concerning the future of regimental bands; if he will make it his policy to encourage regiments to retain their regimental bands; and what is his policy on the future of the regimental system for the Army.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonI have received a small number of representations on the future of regimental bands. Consideration is being given to the future organisation of Army hands, but no decisions have yet been taken. We are fully committed to the preservation of the regimental system, which is so important to the fighting efficiency and morale of the units within it.