Sandhurst (University Links)

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Defence – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 26 March 1969.

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Photo of Mr Tam Dalyell Mr Tam Dalyell , West Lothian 12:00, 26 March 1969

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will now name the university with which he is hoping to establish links for Sandhurst.

Photo of Mr James Boyden Mr James Boyden , Bishop Auckland

I have nothing to add to the Answer given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Defence for Administration on 28th February.—[Vol. 778, c. 372–3.]

Photo of Mr Tam Dalyell Mr Tam Dalyell , West Lothian

I give my right hon. Friends full credit for the bold and imaginative link which they have created in the Defence Review between higher education and the Services. Are they aware, however, that some people are mildly bothered about those individuals who may legitimately change their minds about a Service career during the time that they are undertaking higher education?

Photo of Mr James Boyden Mr James Boyden , Bishop Auckland

I am grateful for what my hon. Friend says. If this negotiation is successful, it will help very much in that respect.

Photo of Mr Geoffrey Rippon Mr Geoffrey Rippon , Hexham

I welcome the concept of links with the universities in the way suggested. However, can the Minister give an assurance that the independent status of the Service colleges will still be maintained?

Photo of Mr James Boyden Mr James Boyden , Bishop Auckland

This will be a help towards that end.