HC Deb 21 July 1936 vol 315 cc253-4
66. Mr. MANDER

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether it is proposed to keep a stock of gas masks in the Palace of Westminster for the use of Members of Parliament, officials, and staff in case of air raids?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

The arrangements to be made for the storage of respirators intended for the civil population are under consideration, and I am not yet in a position to enter into details on the matter.

Mr. MANDER

As a matter of fact, is it at all likely that any enemy Government would want to destroy the Cabinet?

Viscountess ASTOR

Is it not right that Members of the House of Commons ought to be the first to take the strain if war comes?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is the Minister prepared to have classes to educate Members of the House so that they may take advantage of these things?

Mr. LLOYD

I have already offered to arrange a demonstration at which hon. Members can test the efficacy of the masks.

Mr. SANDYS

Are these masks of such a nature that Members can ask supplementary questions through them?