HC Deb 11 July 1969 vol 786 cc322-3W
Mr. David Howell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what are the five main functions of the Stores and Clothing Research Establishment at Colchester.

Mr. Boyden

The main functions of the establishment are:

  1. (i) To keep abreast of industrial research on the development and processing of textile fibres and fabrics, plastics, rubber and light metals.
  2. (ii) To conduct research into the application of new materials to Service requirements of Clothing and General Stores.
  3. (iii) To design, develop, and prove new items of clothing and personal load carrying equipment of all types for Service use.
  4. (iv) To design, develop and prove new items of General Stores, i.e., tentage and shelters, field cooking and heating and sleeping equipment and camouflage equipment.
  5. (vi) To produce specifications for the production of new items of equipment.
  6. (vi) To make full use of all available facilities for the exchange of information and ideas with allied countries and industry.

Mr. David Howell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will arrange an open day for the public to visit the Stores and Clothing Research Establishment at Colchester.

Mr. Boyden

There is no objection in principle to the S.C.R.D.E. being opened to the public, but I doubt whether there would be enough public interest to warrant the expenditure and disruption of essential activities attendant on an occasion of this kind.

I will arrange for a limited number of parties to be shown round the establishment, if sufficient interest is shown.