§ Mr. Sextonasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the blankets used by soldiers stationed at a place notified to him by the hon. Member for Barnard Castle have not been washed 39W since issued five months ago, and that straw used in paillasses has not been changed for over three months; and whether he will order these matters to be put right without delay?
§ Captain MargessonThe regulations provide that at home stations the straw in paillasses should be changed every 90 days and that blankets should be washed after they have been in use for six months, unless the medical authorities order this to be done earlier. In addition, fresh straw is issued if necessary, on a change of troops, when the paillasses left by the unit marching out have been in use for 30 days. Blankets are invariably disinfected before being handed over from one man to another. Inquiries are being made to ensure that the regulations have been observed in the unit to which I understand that my hon. Friend refers.