---

Armed Forces Bill

The recent case of the flight lieutenant has been used as an example of why a life sentence is inappropriate. However, my understanding is that that case was brought not for desertion but for failing to obey a lawful order, so I am surprised that that example is being cited time and again in support of the argument about desertion. I should like to repeat the question that the hon. Member for Portsmouth, South (Mr. Hancock) has just asked; what would my hon. Friend do if the lives of a company of 70 or 80 men were put at risk, or possibly lost, because one person who had a crucial role in the company decided to desert?