HC Deb 25 November 1936 vol 318 cc424-5
59. Mr. CARY

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he can give the House any information as to further progress in respect of air raid precautions, with special reference to the provision of gas masks, gas-proof shelters where practicable, the provision of blast-proof and splinter-proof steel screens for windows, and the supply of bleaching powder for de-contamination purposes; and whether it is the intention of his Department to carry out, in conjunction with the appropriate municipal authorities, specific tests to familiarise the public in the adoption and use of the protective measures in question?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)

I am satisfied that substantial progress is being made in the organisation of air raid precautions. Mass production of respirators for the civilian population is about to begin, and arrangements are in train for the provision of adequate supplies of the materials required in the event of war, such as bleaching powder. The public will be advised to remain indoors in a room which has been protected against gas and splinters, and it is not proposed to recommend the use of steel screens for windows, as sandbags are a better protection. Use is being made of the facilities for the training of the public in measures of air raid precautions which already exist in various parts of the country, and every effort will be made to encourage local authorities to undertake this work, usually in conjunction with the St. John Ambulance Brigade or British Red Cross Society.

Captain ARTHUR EVANS

Is it proposed to take any steps against Socialist county councils who refuse to take part in this very necessary public duty?

Mr. LLOYD

The Air Raid Precautions Department of the Home Office is receiving co-operation from councils of all political parties. There is only one important local authority in the country which is not co-operating.

Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

Which is that?

Mr. THURTLE

Can the hon. Gentleman give the House an assurance that, after all these arrangements are completed, the population of this country will be immune from gas attacks?

Sir W. DAVISON

Will my hon. Friend tell the House the name of this authority?

Mr. LLOYD

I think it is Barnsley.