HC Deb 01 November 1932 vol 269 c1600
20. Mr. MOLSON (for Mr. LENNOXBOYD)

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office what progress has been made by the Committee appointed to consider the question of an improved dress and equipment for the soldier on actice service or manœuvres?

Mr. COOPER

The Committee have reached provisional decisions as to the articles of dress and equipment they propose to recommend for infantry during training and on active service. Their suggestions are designed primarily to lighten the weight carried by the soldier and to make for his comfort, but, before their value can be ascertained, it is necessary that the new dress and equipment should be given a thorough trial under all possible conditions of both manœuvres and training. It will be some months before final conclusions can be reached as a result of this experiment.

Brigadier-General NATION

Is this in addition to the normal issue of clothing made to British soldiers in peace time?

Mr. COOPER

These are alterations which have not yet been decided upon.