§ 73. Mr. BRYCEasked on what date the order was placed for steel helmets; how many have been ordered; and how many have already been issued to the troops at the front?
§ Mr. TENNANTI do not think it is desirable that questions as to the exact date on which orders for this or that article of equipment have been placed should be put in this House, unless it is desired that the enemy should become aware of the details of our arrangements for altering equipment. But in any case the question is one which will be properly addressed to the Minister of Munitions. As regards the latter portions of the question, I may say that some thousands of helmets have already been issued, and it is expected that the number asked for by the Commander-in-Chief will very shortly have been supplied.
§ Mr. BRYCEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the French for six months have had these in larger quantities?
§ Mr. TENNANTYes, Sir, I am quite aware of it.