HC Deb 29 May 1916 vol 82 cc2396-7
80. Mr. ANNAN BRYCE

asked the Under-Secretary for War whether steel helmets have now been provided for all the troops on the Western front; and, if not, whether instructions will be given that when troops leave the trenches they shall leave the helmets for the incoming troops?

Mr. TENNANT

The supply of steel helmets has very nearly reached the number asked for up to the present, and it is believed that sufficient have been issued for the needs of all the British troops within the zone of shell fire in France, As regards the latter part of the question, I think we may safely leave the issue of any such instructions to the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, in whom we all have the highest confidence, rather than attempt to dictate to him from this House on matters obviously within his purview.

81. Mr. BRYCE

asked the Under-Secretary for War, whether the use of steel helmets has diminished and, if so, to what extent the percentage of head wounds in British hospitals which about six months ago were 15 per cent.?

Mr. TENNANT

The percentage of head wounds to total wounds in British hospitals in France, from 13th February, 1916, to 15th May, 1916, is 12.35 per cent