§ 4. Mr. LUMLEYasked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that men who 520 wear surgical boots have to hand over to area headquarters an old pair as soon as it has been ordered to be replaced, and that, as long delays often elapse before a new pair is received, the men are left with only one pair of surgical boots for several months; and whether he will make arrangements to ensure that the old pair need not be handed in until the new pair has been received?
§ Major TRYONNo such general rule as that suggested in the first part of the question exists. Old boots are not required to be surrendered until the new supply is ready, though it may happen that, where application is made for a new pair at a shorter interval than the normal, it might be necessary to see the old pair in order to determine whether the case is one for replacement or repair. I am not aware of any complaint as to delay in the supply of surgical boots, but if the hon. Member has a particular case in mind, and will furnish me with the necessary information, I will make inquiry.