§ 36. Sir GIFFORD FOXasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how the average price of the English gas-mask compares with that used in other countries?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)I understand that manufacturers and traders are for the most part awaiting the announcement of the Government's policy for the regulation of the sale of anti-gas respirators, and I do not consider that any useful comparison can be made between the prices now being charged for respirators in the present limited market and the prices in other countries, where plans for the Government approval of types of respirators are already in force. I hope to make a statement of the Government's policy at an early date.
§ 37 and 38. Sir G. FOXasked the Home Secretary (1) whether any local authorities in the London area are operating his anti-gas Order; and whether he can give the names of such authorities;
(2) the number of local authorities who have taken any action in the direction of providing gas masks and providing anti-gas training?
§ Mr. LLOYDA circular letter was sent to local authorities on 24th February last inviting them to submit the names of employés who should receive training as instructors in anti-gas measures at the Civilian Anti-Gas School. As the circular letter suggested consultation among neighbouring local authorities, it is too early yet to make any statement about the general response to the circular, but I am quite satisfied with the progress that has been made so far. It is hoped by the end of this year that approximately 600 1619 qualified instructors will have passed through the school. The Government have undertaken to provide respirators and protective clothing at the cost of the Exchequer to persons employed on air raid precautionary services.