62. Mr. Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can now make a statement with regard to the extension of the balloon-barrage system of defence to areas other than London?
§ Sir K. WoodI am not at present able to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member on 22nd June last.
Mr. DavidsonIs the reason that the balloon-barrage system is restricted to one particular area due to lack of materials or equipment?
§ Sir K. WoodNo, Sir. I stated on the last occasion that it was not possible to arrive at any decision until we had had further experience of the balloon barrage in the London area.
§ Mr. DaltonIs it intended that the vast industrial populations in the North-East shall not have these essential means of defence?
§ Sir K. WoodThat is not so, but I think it is wise to see what the experience of the London barrage is.
Mr. DavidsonDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that the local authorities in the North of England and Scotland are being asked to carry out their air-raid precautions scheme in conjunction with the rest of the country?
§ Sir K. WoodYes, Sir.
§ Mr. MacquistenWill the balloon barrage be of any use in a gale?