§ 18. Major-General Sir ALFRED KNOXasked the Secretary of State for War 983 whether his attention has been drawn to the decision of the London County Council to refuse permission to cadet corps to use school premises for training purposes after school hours; and whether, in view of the importance of encouraging all defence organisations, he will make representations to reconsider this decision as being contrary to the national interest?
§ Sir V. WARRENDERMy right hon. Friend's attention has been drawn to the decision, but the matter is one in which he fears that any intervention on his part would be ineffective. I can only hope that, despite the discouragement given thereby to the cadet units affected, they may still be able to continue their activities, which are highly desirable in the national interests.
§ Sir A. KNOXHow does my hon. Friend expect these units to continue their patriotic action if the Government do not put pressure on unpatriotic local authorities to force them to give them facilities for their work?
§ Sir WILLIAM DAVISONIs it not a fact that the Government give the London County Council very large grants from Imperial funds, and could they not in that way bring immense pressure to bear on the county council so that they should not interfere with Government policy?
§ Sir V. WARRENDERMY hon. and gallant Friend must know that our powers are very limited and, where you have no power, it is difficult to exert pressure.
§ Sir A. KNOXIs it not possible o consult with the Minister of Education to stop grants to these unpatriotic authorities?
§ Mr. SANDYSWill the hon. Gentleman consider asking Parliament for powers to prevent local authorities from obstructing the essential defence services of the country?
Mr. J.J. DAVIDSONWill the hon. Baronet consider issuing a financial appeal to these people who are so anxious for this form of training for young people to be carried on?