§ Captain Stricklandasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the unsatisfactory position of industrial fire brigades in relation to the National Fire Service and the refusal of the free issue of fire service uniforms; that at present members of the industrial fire brigades have to surrender personal clothing coupons for clothing worn in that service; and whether, in view of the efficient and devoted work of these units, he will remove this injustice?
§ Mr. PeakeI am aware that there are difficulties in regard to the supply of uniforms to part-time members of industrial fire brigades. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Production is examining closely the whole question of uniform supplies, and I am not yet in a position to say whether any concessions can be made to industrial fire brigades. My hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that at the present moment efforts are being made to retrench, rather than to extend, the supply of uniforms.