HC Deb 18 November 1914 vol 68 cc406-7
2. Mr. HOGGE

asked why sailors at the Crystal Palace have to buy their own oilskins, collars, and silkies?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Oilskins are not part of a sailor's compulsory kit. All ships and naval establishments, including the Royal Naval Division Depot at the Crystal Palace, are allowed a certain number of oilskin suits or long waterproof coats for the use of those on exposed duty, and the men may purchase waterproof coats for their personal use from Government stocks. Blue jean collars and black silk handkerchiefs are not part of the kit laid down for the recruits, Royal Naval Division.

Mr. HOGGE

Will the right hon. Gentleman make oilskins part of the kit, or, failing that, will he see that all the men are supplied with winter overcoats and not confine them to men who have been sent to camp?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I will look into it.

Mr. WATT

Have no extras been given to these men on account of the War in the way of clothing?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Yes, the whole question of the winter clothing of the Navy has been most carefully studied, and a very large percentage amounting, I think, to more than £300,000, has been incurred in extra warm clothing.