§ 4. Miss Baconasked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that difficulties are being placed in the way of airmen who wish to play Rugby League football whilst in the Services in that at one station playing kit is allowed from Royal Air Force stores to Rugby Union players but not to Rugby League players; and if he will take steps to see that kit is available for both games.
§ Mr. A. HendersonI am not aware that difficulties are being placed in the way of airmen who wish to play Rugby League football while serving in the Royal Air Force. The difficulty which arose at Uxbridge, which was due to a misunderstanding, has now been removed. I am taking steps to ensure that the necessary kit is available for both games, but, unfortunitely, there is a shortage of football boots and stockings at the moment. More are being purchased and will be issued as soon as they become available.
§ Miss BaconIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that the ending of this discrimination will be greeted with pleasure by Rugby League supporters everywhere, and that he will now be able to make his annual trip to Wembley in safety?
§ Lieut.-Commander Gurney BraithwaiteWould the Secretary of State bear in mind, if there is this shortage of kit of which he has just informed us, that 1708 Rugby League is played by 13 players on each side as opposed to 15 in Rugby Union?