HC Deb 07 February 1951 vol 483 c1709
8. Mr. P. Thorneycroft

asked the Secretary of State for Air why it is necessary to have sample boards measuring 3 feet by 2 feet and 2 feet by 2 feet for every colour of paint used on an air station.

Mr. A. Henderson

Sample boards are not necessary for every colour of paint used on an air station, except for full gloss paints applied internally. When oil gloss paints are applied externally the normal requirement is one test board for each painting contract. The object of sample boards is to determine responsibility in the event of complaint about the quality of painting work.

Mr. Thorneycroft

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman realise that whereas a member of the public cannot buy any timber at all, the Royal Air Force now insist upon sample boards size 3 feet by 2 feet for bits of paint all over their stations? Is that not an extraordinary waste of timber and money?

Mr. Henderson

It may also result in avoiding the waste of public money.