§ Lieut.-Commander Tufnellasked the Secretary of State for War whether ex-servicemen who are trained rifle users and members of the National Defence Corps will receive preferential treatment in regard to the distribution of rifles and ammunition, over those who have no experience in the handling of a rifle?
§ Mr. EdenThe distribution of rifles and ammunition among members of the Local Defence Volunteers is a matter for platoon and company commanders, who will naturally give preferential treatment to those who have experience in handling rifles.
§ Mr. Cocksasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider closing down isolated filling-stations and converting the remainder into strongly defended supply centres with repair garages attached?
§ Mr. EdenInstructions have already been issued in regard to this matter, but it is not desirable to disclose the details.
§ Mr. Cocksasked the Secretary of State for War whether steps are being taken to fortify munition factories and other important buildings, and to supply the workmen with weapons of defence?
§ Mr. EdenIt is one of the objects of the Local Defence Volunteer scheme to afford protection to important buildings. In many cases, those employed in the buildings are enrolled in the force for the defence of their own establishments, and arms are being issued.