Written question asked by Lord Maples (Conservative) on Wednesday, 11 November 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 November 1998. It was answered by Lord Robertson of Port Ellen (Labour) on Monday, 16 November 1998 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will publish the letter written by the Commander in Chief Land Command on 26th October threatening to court martial soldiers who spoke to (a) the Press and (b) honourable Members about proposed TA cuts; and if the letter was authorised by him. - Ref to letter in Library as DEP 98/1530.

Answer: Mr. Maples: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will publish the letter written by the Commander in Chief Land Command on 26 October 1998 threatening to court martial soldiers who spoke to (a) the press and (b) hon. Members about proposed TA cuts; and if the letter was authorised by him. [59926] Mr. George Robertson: The Commander-in-Chief did not need my authorisation to issue his letter, which I have placed in the Library of the House; but he has my full support in his action to remind those under his command of their duty.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 319 c328W; 59926
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Army Correspondence Newspaper press Reserve forces Territorial Army