§ 14. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that 500-lb. bombs are each painted by hand; that minor scratches cause the bombs to be condemned by Air Ministry examiners, who order repainting; whether these regulations apply to other types of bombs; and upon what grounds of efficiency or otherwise this meticulous system is justified?
§ The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)In order to prevent deterioration during prolonged storage and to avoid frequent examination, it is necessary to apply a strict control to various processes, including painting, in the initial manufacture and filling of all types of bomb. Contractors, however, are not restricted to hand painting; and minor scratches do not usually necessitate repainting but only touching up.
Mr. StewartIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in some large shell factories the management regard it as an order from the Ministry that the shells should be painted by hand, and that they would rather spray them?
§ Sir K. WoodPerhaps my hon. Friend will send me a case and I will have it investigated.