§ 59. Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEasked the Secretary of State for War if his attention has been drawn to the absence of anti-aircraft protection for Sheffield and the Midlands; and if any steps are being taken to remedy the deficiency?
§ Sir S. HOAREI have been asked to reply. The defence of the areas referred to is an integral part of the scheme for the defence of this country against air attack. It would not be in the public interest to discuss the actual dispositions of the units included in that scheme.
§ Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEIs it to be understood that there are no anti-aircraft defences in the Midlands whatsoever?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe hon. and gallant Member must understand nothing except what I tell him in the answer.
§ Mr. THURTLEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the only real anti-aircraft protection there can be for this particular area is a policy of peace?
§ Sir S. HOAREThat obviously does not refer specifically to my Department, nor does it arise out of the question.