§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what measures he has taken to prohibit the possession and distribution of race hate literature in the armed services; and under what regulations disciplinary action may be taken against(a) a commissioned officer and (b) a non-commissioned officer if found in possession of such materials on army facilities. [179120]
§ Mr. IngramThe armed forces demand high standards of conduct from all personnel and do not tolerate harassment, discrimination or bullying in any form. Policies, practices and procedures within the framework of the law exist to combat unacceptable behaviour. All complaints are taken seriously, investigated thoroughly and, in cases where discrimination or harassment is proven, dealt with robustly.
Any service person suspected of having committed a criminal offence under the Public Order Act 1986 or a military offence as a result of being found in possession of racially inflammatory material may be charged under the appropriate section of the Service Discipline Acts or subject to administrative action in accordance with service regulations.