HC Deb 27 February 1940 vol 357 cc1883-4
41. Mr. Liddall

asked the Secretary of State for War whether arrangements are made in all home establishments occupied by the Army, Royal Air Force, and Women's Auxiliary Forces for responsible officers to prevent the use of damp bedding; and whether adequate facilities are available in all such establishments for drying bedding and wet clothes, in order to reduce avoidable liability to sick ness?

Mr. Stanley

In all permanent barracks and camps properly equipped drying rooms are provided, where bedding can be aired and clothes dried. In the case of other accommodation, commanding officers are responsible for making suitable arrangements. Special officers are not appointed for this purpose. It is the duty of every officer to care for the health and comfort of the men or women under his or her command.

Dr. Edith Summerskill

Why are not the same facilities provided for the men troops, because there is just as great a danger from damp bedding?

Mr. Stanley

I said that in all permanent barracks and camps, whether used by men or women, these facilities are provided.