HC Deb 10 August 1916 vol 85 cc1233-5
Mr. T. FERENS

(by Private Notice) asked if it is a fact that in one important city on the East Coast in which lives were lost early yesterday morning through an air raid that there was only one gun and one poor searchlight used; and will he take means to ensure that adequate defences against air raids are provided and brought into action when necessity arises?

Major BAIRD

(representing the Air Board): The Zeppelin which crossed a portion of the town referred to was fired at during the whole of the time that it was within effective range of the anti-aircraft defences. It passed high over the town and at great speed. The searchlight used was of a recent and powerful type. The anti-aircraft defences of the locality have been strengthened during the last month, and further improvements are being made in accordance with the general scheme of anti-aircraft defence, which is being carried out as rapidly as circumstances permit.

Sir J. WALTON

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the searchlight failed at another point on the coast? I will not say where it was, but if the hon. and gallant Gentleman will have the matter inquired into I will give him information privately as to where the searchlight was.

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Baronet is making an offer and not asking a question.

Major BAIRD

I shall be very glad to have any matter connected with searchlights investigated if the hon. Baronet will be kind enough to give me details.

Mr. FERENS

Would the hon. and gallant Gentleman be good enough to inquire into the allegation that the searchlight used was very weak and ineffective?

Major BAIRD

Certainly!

Mr. G. FABER

Considering what a well-known mark this place is, was one gun sufficient?

Major BAIRD

I hope my hon. Friend will not think me discourteous, but it is most undesirable to discuss it now.

Mr. PRINGLE

In view of the number of raids which have taken place in this town, could the Department not have done better in the matter of the provision of guns by this time?

Major BAIRD

I do not think so.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

As we have been at war for two years, when may we hope that the scheme my hon. and gallant Friend has adumbrated will really be carried out?

Major BAIRD

The hen. Member seems to have overlooked the fact that this is only one portion of the work which has to be discharged by the Munitions Department. We are dependent on the capacity for turning out munitions to satisfy the demands of the Army in the field as well as demands at home.