Mr. Whiteasked the Home Secretary whether the issue of overcoats and second uniforms to members of the Auxiliary Fire Service has now been completed?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonAs my hon. Friend is probably aware, uniform clothing for members of the Auxiliary Fire Service is provided by local authorities. I understand that the supply of lined waterproof coats is proceeding satisfactorily and over 140,000 have already been issued. Except for men on specially exposed duties the issue of overcoats has not been authorised. The position with regard to the provision of a second uniform for whole-time men varies in different localities, but considerable progress has been made in spite of manufacturing difficulties and I hope that in most brigades the issue will be completed within the next three months.