HC Deb 18 April 1983 vol 41 cc47-8W
Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what were the reasons for the delay in purchasing 2,750 Nomex III fire protective suits from Wood Harris and Co. Ltd. of Halifax.

Mr. Ian Stewart

I am not aware of any delay in the purchasing of these suits. If my hon. Friend cares to write to me about any particular points he has in mind, I will endeavour to reply.

Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the approximate unit cost of a fire protective suit made from an aromatic polyamide fibre of a type such as Nomex III for use by service personnel.

Mr. Ian Stewart

It is not the practice to reveal commercially confidential information on unit prices.

Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what consultations he has had with middle east countries about fire protective suits made from Nomex for service personnel.

Mr. Ian Stewart

None.

Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will estimate the reduction in burns casualties when fire-protective clothing made from aromatic polyamide fibre is available for service personnel caught in a fire on board ship.

Mr. Ian Stewart

It is not possible to estimate precisely the reduction in burns injuries resulting from the use of a protective coverall as this would depend on specific circumstances.

Mr. Robert Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how long Nomex III fire protective clothing has been available for use by military personnel in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Ian Stewart

Since January 1983.