HC Deb 19 March 1941 vol 370 cc160-1
54. Mr. Simmonds

asked the Home Secretary what provision in waterproof clothing he has made for workers in rescue parties?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Home Security (Mr. Mabane)

Groundsheet capes have been provided for rescue parties.

Mr. Simmonds

Is my hon. Friend aware that these groundsheets are not suitable for rescue workers, who have to lift great weights, and that frequently they have to remove the groundsheets in the pouring rain, in order to proceed with their duties? Will he consider providing a certain number of mackintoshes for these men?

Mr. Mabane

This matter has been carefully considered, and, for operational reasons, the groundsheet was decided upon as being the most suitable garment for rescue parties.

Mr. Simmonds

Would my hon. Friend look into this matter again, because some of the rescue parties feel very strongly that these groundsheets were given to them merely because they were available some months ago, and that the matter should be looked into again and some new arrangement made?