asked the Secretary of State for War where the full dress uniform of the Brigade of Guards is stored; in what condition it is now; and how often it is examined and precautions taken against depreciation by moth, etc.

Full dress clothing for other ranks of the Brigade of Guards is stored at a Central Ordnance Sub-Depot.

The uniforms are in a serviceable condition. They are inspected as often as practicable and a complete inspection has just been finished.

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that, at least in so far as the tunics and the blue serge trousers are concerned, they are the private property of the warrant officers, N.C.Os. and guardsmen concerned; whether his Department paid these people on their uniform being handed in, and if not what steps are being taken to pay them, or their next-of-kin?

s: I do not see any reference to these matters in the Question.

Is the Minister aware that every warrant officer, N.C.O. and guardsman had at least two suits of full dress, and very often three, which were their own personal property, on the declaration of war? Was a complete record kept of those who handed in more than one suit of full dress?

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind, when considering the question of dress of the Brigade of Guards, the question of officers' dress and the great difficulty of replacement if it should be taken into use again?

I am fully aware of the difficulties. The problem is not as simple as it appears to be.