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(c) The existing stocks of charged spray containers

will allow a concentrated spray effort to be exerted for some days, or a less intensive spray effort, combined with H.E. and gas bombing, for several weeks. The subse uent position depends upon the rates of weapon production and charging • The major proportion of our existing stocks is in 500 lb. containers, for the medium bombers.

(a)

Distribution.

10.

The distribution of spray containers is as yet incomplete. Special storage is being constructed at bomber stations, but will not be completed until the end of February. Pending its completion stocks are not being held at the bomber stations, except in one or two instances. Spray could not therefore be employed at less than 2 or 3 days notice. When a greater degree of readiness is required, the containers can be distributed to the stations, if the risk of enemy action to which they would be exposed is accepted. Production. 11. (a)

The weapon production position is still not satisfactory. Nc 50 ib. Mk. I bombs are being received. Only 182 incomplete 250 lb. containers and 70 incomplete 1,000 lb. containers have yet been received. 276 complete and 123 incomplete 500 1b. containers, and 3,398 30 lb. Mk. II bombs were received in the week ending 8th February, 1941, and this rate is satisfactory if maintained. It must be stressed that the 50 16. Mk. II bomb is not a replacement for the Mk. I. The Mk. II is only suitable for use against hard targets.

My

(b) The various ancillary components are not being

received at the same rate as bodies.

Training Position

The

12. All bomber squadrons can undertake gas bombing without special training. The majority of the medium bomber squadrons are fully trained to operate with gas spray. remaining medium boniber squadrons are completing their spray training on high priority. Sufficient Wellington squadrons are fully trained to exert the available 1,000 lb. container effort. All Wellington squadrons are being progressively trained for spray duties.

(Signed) DUDLEY POUND

Great George Street, S.W.1.,

18TH FEBRUARY, 1941.

-3

"}

C. PORTAL

RH. HAINING

(V.C.I.G.S.)

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