HC Deb 28 January 1937 vol 319 cc1050-1
25. Mr. Keeling

asked the Home Secretary how soon the proposed handbook on air raid precautions in the home will be published; what the price will be; whether information as to the best method of making premises gas-proof, blast-proof, and splinter-proof will be distributed to every householder and other occupier free of charge, and when?

Mr. Lloyd

A handbook for householders, giving simple information on these matters is now in process of final revision and should be ready for issue in the near future. The arrangements for publication are under consideration.

Mr. Keeling

Is my hon. Friend not in a position to answer whether the information will be given free to the public?

Mr. Lloyd

Not at the moment.

40. Mr. Keeling

asked the Home Secretary what progress has been made in training the Metropolitan police to protect the public during air raids?

Mr. Lloyd

I am glad to be able to say that the air raid precautions training of the Metropolitan Police is reaching completion, and will be approximately complete within a few weeks.

Mr. Keeling

Is similar progress being made in the training of provincial police?

Mr. Lloyd

Yes, Sir. Some of the provincial police forces have now completed their training, and, broadly speaking, the training of the police forces of the country should be completed within a few months.

41. Mr. Mitchell

asked the Home Secretary what precise arrangements are to be made for training British pharmacists in anti-gas work; and whether any retaining fees will be paid to pharmacists for their assistance in the anti-gas scheme?

Mr. Lloyd

The Pharmaceutical Society generously offered the co-operation of its members in connection with air raid precautions, and this offer was gratefully accepted. After discussion it was agreed that in the event of an emergency pharmacists could probably give the greatest service by carrying on with their ordinary work. Arrangements will be made as soon as possible for a number of places at the Civilian Anti-Gas School to be reserved for members of the society, who will be trained as instructors with a view to their training other members of the society in anti-gas precautions. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.