HC Deb 25 November 1941 vol 376 cc582-3
57. Sir Reginald Garry

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply whether he has examined an interim report on the progress of wearing tests on Army leather boots, some of which have been the subject of a special treatment process with the object of extending their effective life; and, if so, what are the prospects of effecting economies by the general adoption of this treatment?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Supply (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

Yes, Sir. Reports on the wearing tests of Army boots, which have been treated by the process referred to, were received from the War Office on 14th November, 1941. These reports show clearly that the treatment does not increase the wearing properties of the boots. The trials will, therefore, be abandoned.

Sir R. Clarry

Have the inventors had the opportunity of examining the data in connection with the tests in accordance with the arrangements which were made at the beginning?

Mr. Macmillan

The tests were made, as I understand, by the Army at the request of the Ministry of Supply, and the arrangements for the tests were, so far as my information goes, agreed to.

Sir R. Clarry

Is my hon. Friend aware that there were other arrangements which provided for the inventors to examine the data from time to time?

Mr. Macmillan

Perhaps my hon. Friend will put down another Question on that point or see me later.

Sir R. Garry

Will the inventors have the opportunity of coming to an agreement with your Department on the results of the tests?

Mr. Macmillan

We shall be very glad to show them the results of the tests and to discuss them with them.