HC Deb 17 July 1918 vol 108 c1037
37. Mr. NEEDHAM

asked the Undersecretary of State to the Air Ministry whether he is thoroughly satisfied from experience as to the fastness of the new colour of the uniform recently authorised; and whether he is aware that it is not as useful a colour as khaki for hard wear, and that it will much sooner present a shabby and worn appearance owing to its lesser resistance to dirt and stains?

Colonel GIBBS

Tests applied to the cloth for the new uniform for the Royal Air Force show that the dye stands exposure well, and that the cloth is capable of being easily cleaned. The colour was selected after full consideration as the best distinctive colour available.

39. Mr. ROWLANDS

asked the Undersecretary whether he is aware that an Order has been issued by the Air Minister that members of the Royal Air Force are not to wear chevrons, although qualified the same as the men in the other Services; and, if so, if he will state the reason for this Order?

Colonel GIBBS

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on Monday to a question by the hon. and gallant Member for Ipswich.

Mr. ROWLANDS

May I ask whether the fact is that because dangerous flying is done by men at home as distinguished from men abroad some distinctive mark is not to be given to those who undertake dangerous work at home?

Colonel GIBBS

Perhaps my hon. Friend will put down another question.

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