HC Deb 05 March 1936 vol 309 cc1541-3
20. Mr. SHORT

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will arrange for Members of this House to attend a demonstration of the gas-mask to be used for the protection of the civilian population?

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

When the design of the respirator referred to is finally settled, I shall be very glad to arrange for a demonstration; and I hope that hon. Members will not merely attend, but will years 1900, 1914, 1924, arid for each year between 1929 and 1935?

Mr. E. BROWN

As the reply involves a table of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the reply:

also test for themselves the efficacy of the respirator in various concentrations of poison gases.

Mr. T. SMITH

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether, when this demonstration takes place, it will take place under conditions similar to those which will obtain when there is a gas attack?

Mr. LLOYD

It will take place under the conditions which are operating at the Anti-Gas School.

Mr. LOGAN

Is there any intention of using the apparatus in this House?

Mr. R. ACLAND

Will the hon. Gentleman see that the conditions are conditions created by scientists who are independent of the Government?

21. Lieut. - Commander FLETCHER

asked the Home Secretary what precautionary instructions, in addition to those against gas attacks, he is sending to local authorities with regard to attacks by high explosive and incendiary bombs?

Mr. LLOYD

It is hoped to issue handbooks and memoranda, making available to local authorities, industrial undertakings and the public generally the information at the disposal of the Government on protection against high explosives and incendiary bombs; and I can assure the hon. Member that this aspect of the subject is being given the careful consideration which it requires as an integral part of all air raids precautions schemes.