§ 37. Mr. Keelingasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the uniforms of soldiers arriving in this country on leave are necessarily very dirty after their long journey; whether he will arrange for priority for their cleaning, and also for coupons to be supplied to men who have outgrown the civilian clothes which they left at home.
§ Sir J. GriggClean uniforms are usually issued to men from the British Liberation Army who need them, before they sail for this country. Men who arrive in this country from distant theatres have worn out clothing replaced when they arrive, before they are sent home. I am considering whether any further measures are necessary.
§ Mr. KeelingIs my right hon. Friend aware that some of these men have been three weeks or more on the way, and that it will be longer when they come from the Far East and that this is a substantial grievance which ought to be met? If the Government cannot tackle it would he consider handing it over to a welfare organisation?
§ Sir J. GriggThe suggestion in the last part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question is entirely unwarranted. As regards the first part, I have already said that I am considering whether any further measures are necessary.
§ Mr. KeelingIt is urgent.