HC Deb 08 January 1942 vol 377 c62W
Sir J. Graham Kerr

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can assure the House that all supplies of scrim sent out for camouflage in the sandy desert are supplied in colouring and shades proper for use in such conditions and not in the green colour suitable for the English countryside?

Sir E. Grigg

Orders for scrim for use in the East are placed by the authorities on the spot according to their requirements, and there is a fully qualified development branch for camouflage in the Middle East which advises on the colours and shades required.

Sir J. Graham Kerr

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that in August, 1940, a distinguished biological specialist was permitted to camouflage a coastal defence gun according to correct biological principles, and that the result showed a marked increase in the effectiveness of the camouflage; whether any steps were taken to secure the immediate extension of this protection to every gun in the service ashore or afloat; and whether he will inform the House, if in the public interest, what obstacles have prevented this from being carried into effect?

Sir E. Grigg

I am aware of the facts stated in the first part of the Question; as regards the second and third parts I can assure my hon. Friend that the Army has taken full advantage of the biological knowledge of the specialist referred to and that no obstacles have been placed in the way of its proper application.