§ 24. Captain BARNETTasked the Home Secretary why the approach of hostile aircraft is not made known in London, as elsewhere, by siren or fog-horn; and whether, in order to render air-warnings distinctive and unmistakable, steps will be taken to prohibit the use of sirens for other purposes throughout the metropolitan area until further order?
§ Sir G. CAVEI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the statement which I made in the House last night, in which I explained why it has not been thought desirable to give public warning by siren or foghorn in London.
§ Captain BARNETTDoes the right hon. Gentleman consider that the size of London and the fact that some foolish people do rush into the streets provide any reason for depriving Londoners of that protection which is given to people outside?
§ Mr. SPEAKERIf the hon. Member had been here last night he would have heard the answer.
§ Captain BARNETTI read the right hon. Gentleman's speech.
§ Mr. BILLINGMay I ask whether it is proposed to introduce any systematised 1301 form throughout the country, or whether it is proposed to allow the local organisations to make their own arrangements?
§ Sir G. CAVEThe arrangements are made under the supreme direction of the military authorities. London being a special district, special arrangements are made, but this particular method of warning is not recommended as likely to save life.
§ Mr. BILLINGAre we to understand that no method of warning is to be introduced?
§ Sir G. CAVEThere is a method of warning which is very effective, but this particular method is thought likely to result, not in the saving of life, but possibly in the loss of life.
§ Mr. BILLINGWas the method which the right hon. Gentleman suggests is so effective, employed on the occasion of the recent raid in London?
§ Sir G. CAVEYes, so far as time permitted.
§ Captain BARNETTHas my right hon. Friend's attention been drawn to the statement of Lord Knutsford of the London Hospital on the subject?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat also was discussed last night.
§ 32. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War why no warning was given of the approach of hostile aeroplanes on the occasion of the raid last Wednesday?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI have nothing to add to what was said by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary last night on the Motion for the Adjournment.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEIf it is necessary to give warning in the provinces, why should it not be necessary to give warning in London?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat matter was discussed last night.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEThat very matter?
§ Mr. SPEAKERYes.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEI beg your pardon, Sir.