§ Mr. ASHLEYasked whether the blankets issued to the private soldier are exchanged once every twelve months; if so, whether that is considered to be sufficient to ensure cleanliness; and whether a private soldier joining a unit receives clean blankets, or must use those of others for the unexpired portion of twelve months?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe reply to the first two parts of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the last part of the question, fresh blankets are not issued to men on joining a unit.
§ Mr. ASHLEYDoes the right hon. Gentleman approve the practice of young boys having to use blankets which have been used for six or nine months by other men?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe hon. Member was at one time an officer in the Army, and he knows this is a practice which has always prevailed.
§ Mr. ASHLEYDoes the right hon. Gentleman approve the practice?
§ Mr. HALDANEI have no reason to disapprove of it.