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Court Martial System Inquiry

Oral Answers to Questions — British Army – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 25 Chwefror 1947.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Tom Driberg Mr Tom Driberg , Maldon 12:00, 25 Chwefror 1947

asked the Secretary of State for War how many times Mr. Justice Lewis's Committee, set up last October to inquire into the court martial system, has met; and how soon a report may be expected from it.

Photo of Mr John Freeman Mr John Freeman , Watford

The committee held its tenth meeting on 20th February. There is a great weight of evidence to consider and I cannot say how soon a report is to be expected.

Photo of Mr Tom Driberg Mr Tom Driberg , Maldon

Does my hon. Friend recognise that this is a very serious matter, and that this committee's report is awaited most anxiously?

Photo of Mr John Freeman Mr John Freeman , Watford

I regard it as quite as serious as my hon. Friend does, and I have no doubt the committee will take note of what he has said.

Photo of Mr Campbell Stephen Mr Campbell Stephen , Glasgow Camlachie

Will the Minister ask the committee to try to have the report ready before the army Annual Bill is introduced?

Photo of Mr John Freeman Mr John Freeman , Watford

No, Sir, I should think that would be quite out of the question. The Oliver Committee, which did a somewhat similar job, took four and a half months to report, and the terms of reference in this case are such that I do not think it would be possible to have the report ready when the hon. Member suggests.

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