HC Deb 13 March 1918 vol 104 cc315-6
74. Mr. GILBERT

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that there is in many parts of London a desire that the maroon warnings of air raids shall be given in future all night; is he prepared to authorise this in future; and can he make any statement that will satisfy the people who desire the extension of the hours of the existing warnings?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT(Sir George Cave)

I am aware that considerable interest is taken in this matter, and in view of representations which have been received and of the experience gained during recent air raids, the question has been reconsidered.

It is believed that the meaning of the maroons is now well understood, and that they are generally appreciated as an effective warning of a threatened air raid; and I am informed that owing to the complete arrangements made by Home Forces the risk of a false alarm is now reduced to a minimum. I am further informed that there is still some uneasiness lest if an air raid should commence after midnight the warning to take cover should not reach the back streets, and that the promise of a sound warning at all hours would produce a feeling of greater confidence. In these circumstances, and notwithstanding some strong arguments to the contrary, the Commissioner of Police proposes to give the maroon warning at all hours of the day or night when an air raid is impending.

I may perhaps be allowed to add that in no case should the maroon warning be treated as an invitation to the house- holder to leave his house, the safest course in all cases being to remain at home and and to keep the children there.

Mr. GILBERT

Arising out of that answer will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to have public notices issued at once stating his new decision?

Mr. LOUGH

Will he say whether he has considered the desirability of using a syren at night? It is less alarming.

Sir G. CAVE

We have considered that very carefully, and have discarded the suggestion. I think my announcement will be fairly widely known, but I will consider whether some further notice should be given.

Mr. ANDERSON

Will the Home Secretary consider the issuing of a very special notice to people about not leaving their houses. Taking children out of their warm beds into the cold streets has been responsible for a great deal of illness and death, and could not something more urgent be issued?

Sir G. CAVE

There is a notice to that effect already issued, but I will see whether something more striking cannot be issued.