asked the Secretary of State for Defence which voluntary bodies engaged in welfare work among Service men were consulted in the preparation of the report of the Army Welfare Inquiry Committee; and which such bodies he now intends to consult on the report.

The bodies which gave evidence to the Army Welfare Inquiry Committee are listed at Annex A to the Committee's report.The following voluntary Service welfare organisations have been consulted on the report so far: the Council of Voluntary Welfare Work; the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and British Red Cross Society; the Soldiers', Sailors' and Airmen's Families Association; the Women's Royal Voluntary Service.There will be further consultations with organisations which will be affected by the implementation of the recommendations accepted by the Ministry of Defence.

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what changes he envisages in the responsibility of commanding officers as regards the welfare of the families of men in Army units.

I do not envisage any changes in this responsibility of commanding officers. They will continue to be supported, where necessary, by the various welfare services and agencies.