§ 4. Mr. Jewsonasked the Secretary of State for War whether Home Guards will be allowed to retain their leather belts.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Sir James Grigg)As I said in my answer 2 announcing what items of clothing and equipment members of the Home Guard would be allowed to retain the decision was taken in the light of an up-to-date assessment of the supply position. Leather, as my hon. Friend is aware, is very short and these belts are needed for a definite military commitment overseas.
§ Mr. CocksIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the modern view is that the children should not be chastised in this way, even by Home Guards?
§ Sir J. GriggI had not thought of that.
§ 5. Sir DouglasHacking asked the Secretary of State for War to what extent service respirators are to be withdrawn from the Home Guard; to whom they will be reissued; and what form of respirators will replace those withdrawn from the Home Guard.
§ Sir J. GriggThis matter is under consideration. The decision will depend on the operational situation at the time when the Home Guard is stood down.