HC Deb 22 October 1940 vol 365 cc918-9
5. Captain Strickland

asked the Secretary of State for War how many units of the Home Guard there are to whom no issue has yet been made of equipment, uniform or steel helmets?

Sir E. Grigg

The distribution of equipment and clothing is made by Territorial Army Associations on instructions from the Commands as stocks become available, and I am not aware of any unit which has not received an allotment, though the allotment varies for military reasons from place to place.

Captain Strickland

Is my hon. Friend aware that at the present time members of the staff of the Houses of Parliament and Members of Parliament are called upon to go through the streets during bombardments in order to fulfil their duties without any steel helmets to cover their heads as protection?

Sir E. Grigg

I am certain that members of the Parliamentary Home Guard do not wish for preferential treatment as compared with the members of the Home Guard in other parts of London.

Captain Strickland

Can my hon. Friend say how many units are similarly situated in the country, or is the Home Guard of the Palace of Westminster alone in this lack of protection?

Sir E. Grigg

It is well known that the supply of steel helmets is at present short. They are being issued to those units of the Home Guard which require them most as quickly as possible.

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