HC Deb 20 October 1915 vol 74 cc1767-8
3. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty which Departments of the State and what actual persons are responsible for the defence of London from Zeppelin raids?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Under arrangements made in August, 1914, the primary responsibility for the defence of London rests with the Admiralty. The Some Office are responsible for the arrangements about lighting and other precautionary measures of a non-military character, and they act in co-operation with the Admiralty. The officer in charge of the gun defence of London is Admiral Sir Percy Scott.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, when Army aeroplanes go up, they are directed by the Admiralty as well? What is the exact provision for the defence of London in regard to aeroplanes?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The general responsibility rests with the Admiralty, as I have said. I think the question as to aeroplanes over London is down for to-morrow.

54. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Prime Minister whether the Cabinet has considered the policy of aeroplane reprisals on German towns as a deterrent to the Zeppelin air raids on our defenceless population; and whether such policy will be adopted?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Tennant)

The policy of reprisals is always one open to controversy. The Royal Flying Corps is a military organisation and is engaged upon military operations. The dastardly raids by the enemy on undefended towns and defenceless people will not and should not be allowed to divert the energies of this fighting force from its primary military duties.