§ Mr. MANFIELDasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if his attention has been called to the death of Driver Tidy, Royal Field Artillery, which occurred at Northampton on 14th December at a gas practice; whether he is aware that this man and Driver Dyson, of the same regiment, were removed from the gas-chamber in an unconscious condition and taken to the hospital, that Tidy died on admission, and that two days later Dyson was reported as being not yet out of danger; whether he is aware that this gas-chamber practice is regarded with much concern by the men; and whether he will take steps to ensure some other form of gas practice being devised which will not entail such fatal results?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI understand that this accident took place owing to the men removing their helmets in the gas chamber, contrary to express instructions. The men became unconscious and were at once removed by the staff of the school. The two helmets were tested immediately and found to be efficient. I am not aware that gas-chamber practice is regarded with concern by the men. There is no danger if helmets are worn.