§ 32. Sir J. Mellorasked the Secretary of State for War whether the loss of three cameras from his printing and photographic department has now been accounted for; what was their value; when they were last checked in; and what steps were taken for their custody.
§ Mr. WyattThe cameras, which were kept in steel cupboards, have not been found. Their value was approximately £300. They were missed at the weekly check on 2nd April, having last been seen on 27th March.
§ Sir J. MellorHaving regard to previous irregularities in this department, why was this matter not put into the hands of the police until 24 days after the loss was discovered?
§ Mr. WyattMy information is different from that of the hon. Member. The police were informed immediately. Incidentally, arrangements have been made to tighten up the check on these cameras.
§ Sir J. MellorWill the hon. Gentleman look at the reply given by his predecessor on 1st May, in which he said that the loss was discovered on 2nd April, and then added:
The matter was put in the hands of the police, who had previously been asked to circulate particulars of the missing cameras, on 26th April."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 1st May, 1951; Vol. 487, c. 980.]That is 24 days.
§ Mr. WyattThe hon. Gentleman will note that in that reply my predecessor said that the police had previously been asked.