HC Deb 06 August 1940 vol 364 cc14-5
26. Mr. Lyons

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the issue of light emergency rations for all outlying posts or watchers of units of the Home Guard where there is a possibility of periods of extended duty in emergency?

Mr. Eden

Arrangements are already being made to ensure this.

35. Rear-Admiral Beamish

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will make an announcement, for the information of the Home Guard and the public, of recent decisions and future intentions concerning clothing, equipment, rations, compensation, capitation grants, etc., together with proper information as to the present situation as affecting this force?

Mr. Eden

Detailed instructions on some of the points specifically referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend were issued on 24th June, and further instructions on these and other points will be issued very shortly. As regards the last part of the Question, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the full statement that I made in the House on 23rd July in answer to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Seaham (Mr. Shinwell).

Rear-Admiral Beamish

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a considerable amount of distress and disappointment at the slowness with which they are getting these decisions made?

Mr. Eden

I hope not. On the whole, the account that I have received is that they have made extraordinarily good progress in a very short time.

Sir Cooper Rawson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that these men have to wear a lot of old clothes underneath?

Mr. Eden

Yes, Sir.