§ 17. Mr. Hammersleyasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has any report to make on a fire-fighting practice on 22nd March, of which he has been informed, as a result of which a number of A.T.S. personnel were taken to hospital; whether he has any information as to the type of bombs used during the practice; whether a court of inquiry has been ordered; and what steps he is taking to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
§ Sir J. GriggIn order to make the firefighting practice, in which incendiary bombs were being used, more realistic, the instructor set off a smoke generator and some thunder flashes. A number of the auxiliaries were overcome by the combination of fumes, and were admitted to hospital. I am glad to say they have 1788 now all returned to duty, after a period of leave. A court of inquiry has been held into this unfortunate incident. The use of the smoke generator indoors is contrary to existing instructions, and I am considering whether any further steps are necessary to prevent a recurrence.
§ Mr. HammersleyWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for the information, might I ask whether any steps are being taken to ensure that the medical records of these personnel are suitably marked, in case of after-effects on their health?
§ Sir J. GriggI have not the slightest doubt that they will be, but I will verify that.