Home Defence Force

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Defence – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 2 February 1966.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Sir William Anstruther-Gray Sir William Anstruther-Gray , Berwickshire and East Lothian 12:00, 2 February 1966

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what contribution he proposes that military units should make towards home defence.

Photo of Mr Oscar Murton Mr Oscar Murton , Poole

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will take steps to form a home security force for aid to civil defence; and if he will make a statement.

Photo of Mr Gerald Reynolds Mr Gerald Reynolds , Islington North

I am making a statement later today.

Photo of Sir William Anstruther-Gray Sir William Anstruther-Gray , Berwickshire and East Lothian

While appreciating that we are to have a statement, arising out of my original Question, may I ask whether the hon. Gentleman is confident that officers and men serving in the Territorial Army at present will be prepared to join his new organisation?

Photo of Mr Gerald Reynolds Mr Gerald Reynolds , Islington North

I have not yet announced any new organisation.

Photo of Mr Oscar Murton Mr Oscar Murton , Poole

I appreciate that a statement is to be made, but may I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he will make clear that he will employ the Territorial Army in this rôle and so try to raise its present sagging morale?

Photo of Mr Gerald Reynolds Mr Gerald Reynolds , Islington North

The hon. Member must wait another hour.