§ Mr. D. GRENFELLasked the Home Secretary whether he will consider the possibilities of distributing gas masks to the civilian population as well as to persons engaged in essential services, so that no one by reason of his economic position is unable to take measures suggested for his protection; and what would be the approximate cost of such distribution?
§ Sir J. SIMONI sympathise with the purpose of the hon. Gentleman's inquiry. The question of the means by which respirators should be made available for the general public is under consideration.
§ Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Home Secretary whether he can state the estimated 2680W cost of making the rooms in an average sized dwelling-house gas proof again air raids?
§ Sir J. SIMONThe cost of protecting rooms against gas would vary according to the size and construction of each room, the number of windows and doors and the state of repair. It is not contemplated that in an ordinary house more than one room should be made fully gas-proof, but in addition a double gas-proof door, or air lock, should be provided at the outer door of the house. I am advised that the cost of materials needed to construct this air lock and to protect one room that was in reasonably good repair ought to be less than one pound, exclusive of blankets and rags which might be assumed to be available in the house. I am having special investigation made of the simplest methods of providing the necessary protection so that the cost of materials may be kept to a minimum, and that the ordinary householder may if he wishes do the work himself.