§ 21. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Secretary of State for Air how much money was spent on equipment for R.A.F. personnel of which he has been informed; will he give a list of that equipment; to what use has it been put; and what is its present condition.
§ The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Archibald Sinclair)The equipment in 222 question, which consisted in the main of beds and bedding, was supplied to provide sleeping facilities for members of the W.A.A.F. and A.T.S. engaged on intensive operational duties in connection with flying-bomb attacks. The cost of the equipment, which was drawn from stocks, is estimated at about £850. The whole of it has now been withdrawn, and I am informed that, apart from some articles unavoidably affected by damp, it is in good condition.
§ Sir W. SmithersWill my right hon. Friend give a general undertaking that any waste of public money will be the subject of strong disciplinary action?
§ Sir A. SinclairCertainly. But in this case there was no waste. Provision was being made for women engaged on dangerous and important duties, plotting the flying bombs, so as to give them good safe conditions for sleeping at night.