Troops, London

Oral Answers to Questions — British Army – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 17 December 1958.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mr George Wigg Mr George Wigg , Dudley 12:00, 17 December 1958

asked the Secretary of State for War in view of the need to maintain a high standard of conduct, whether he is satisfied with the off-duty behaviour of troops employed on public duties in the centre of London; and whether he will make a statement.

Photo of Mr Christopher Soames Mr Christopher Soames , Bedford

Yes, Sir. About 1,800 soldiers are employed on public duties in London. During the past year fifteen of them have appeared in the magistrates' courts for various offences. This is a small proportion of offenders among a body of troops spending their time off duty in central London. The reports of the provost authorities are favourable and I am very satisfied with the general standard of conduct.

Photo of Mr George Wigg Mr George Wigg , Dudley

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it is perhaps a little unfortunate that he has applied a standard of conduct related to the number of convictions? Should there not be a much better standard here? In the view of senior officers of all branches of the Army some of these things have gone on in London far too long. Has he consulted the Commissioner of Police about the behaviour of troops in certain notorious spots in London which I would mention to him privately? Is not this a matter which needs to be kept constantly under review?

Photo of Mr Christopher Soames Mr Christopher Soames , Bedford

Indeed it is, and if the hon. Member has any information contrary to what I have said, I should be delighted to have it.