§ 162. Mr. Linsteadasked the Secretary of State for War what has been done to provide nylon body armour for British troops in Korea; whether this armour can be made in Great Britain; and whether our troops are to be equipped at the same time as the Americans.
§ Mr. HeadAbout 1,600 armoured vests have now been supplied to our men in Korea and are being tried out on184W raids, patrols and other operations. They have proved very effective against shell, mortar and grenade splinters but are not, of course, proof against bullets at normal ranges. There are various types of these vests and, although they can be made in this country, a decision to do so will not be taken until we know which is the best.
Meanwhile, I am satisfied that the First Commonwealth Division are getting all the vests which they have asked for from the United States' supplies.