§ Mr. Lyonsasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware of the fact that 164W binoculars conforming to service requirements are being offered for sale; and whether he proposes now to take steps to acquire these instruments compulsorily rather than to extend the time of invitation by advertisement?
§ Sir A. DuncanIn view of the success of the recent appeal for binoculars and of the supplies now coming forward from manufacturers, it is not proposed to launch any further advertisement scheme or to take steps for compulsory general acquisition. If, however, my hon. and learned Friend will let me know of any particular cases in which binoculars suitable for service use are being offered for sale, I shall be pleased to take action. Compulsory powers have already been used in certain instances to requisition binoculars from trade sources.