I believe radium is used on the instruments and is of serious enough concern to collectors and warbirds operators, extra paperwork etc due to health risks. Although, I can't see how this was an issue unless there was a damaged gauge in the cockpit?Also, as a Spitfire pilot sits on his 'chute, perhaps they deemed the bucket of the seat inadequate for a chap of his age without a cushion available?
Remember, don't believe everything the sensationalist rags say!