THE FIREMEN AND THEIR TROUSERS.

Horowhenua Chronicle, 7 February 1936, Page 8

THE FIREMEN AND THEIR TROUSERS.

A very embarrassing question has been considered by the Walton and Weybridge Council: a question about trousers —but not the plain, ordinary garments; trousers with holes in then), says the "Daily Mail.''

The trousers are those worn—or which should be worn—by members of the local fire brigade.

The delicate problem was raised when a report was submitted to the council showing that an expenditure of £95 was necessary to provide new uniforms. But only £25 was allowed in this year's estimate. Commander Godfrey, chairman of the fire brigade committee, pointing out that some of the men had holes in the seats of their trousers, declared that the present uniforms were fifteen years old—(so a further wait of a few months for new ones would not make much difference.

Said Councillor Ayley: "If I thought the firefighters' efficiency would be impaired by lack of full uniform, I would vote for larger expenditure, but I do not.

"I cannot believe that firemen would stop to change their trousers when a call is made."

Councillor Jack: I was told that the matter is so serious that some of the brigade members have no trousers at all to wear to a fire.

The council decided to spend only Z 25, as allowed in the estimate —but it will be spent principally on trouseTs.