HC Deb 11 May 1938 vol 335 cc1591-2W
Mr. Liddall

asked the Home Secretary in what manner and to what extent, whether by financial grant or otherwise, his Department co-operates with university and similar investigating authorities undertaking research into problems of protection against and treatment of conditions produced by poison gas warfare?

Mr. Lloyd:

The Home Office makes a contribution to the cost of the Chemical Defence Research Department of the War Office which has recourse where practicable to the services of the authorities to which my hon. Friend refers.

Mr. Liddall

asked the Home Secretary whether he is satisfied with the efficiency of the gas-protective clothing at present recommended by his Department; whether he is aware of the recent successful experiments, conducted at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, into an improved fabric more resistent to blistering gases and permitting prolonged muscular work to be done in clothing of this new material; and will he state if he proposes to take immediate and full advantage of this technical development?

Mr. Lloyd:

The gas-protective clothing recommended by the Home Office represents the best and most suitable clothing which was readily available at the time it was adopted. Its limitations are recognised and continuous effort is being made to improve it. A demonstration at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine of an alternative type of suit was witnessed by representatives of the Service Departments and the Home Office, and the Home Office is advised that it does not consist of an improved fabric more resistant to blistering gases, but incorporates a device intended to permit more prolonged muscular work to be done. It is at present undergoing official tests, and pending their completion is would be premature to take any decision as to its adoption.

Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Transport whether, in view of the vulnerability from the air of the overhead electric pylons, the Government will introduce legislation to compel electricity undertakings to instal underground cables?

Mr. Burgin:

No, Sir. Apart from technical considerations, the cost would be out of all proportion to any advantage.