31. Mr. David Adamsasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether appropriate schemes of balloon barrages are in existence for the protection of industrial centres and populations on the North-East Coast?
§ Earl WintertonNo, Sir. It has already been stated that the provision of balloon units for the protection of areas outside London will be considered in the light of the experience gained in the development of the London barrage. Until this stage is reached it would be premature to draw up detailed schemes for the protection of other areas, but the subject is under active consideration.
Mr. AdamsIs the Minister aware that several months ago I made an offer to the Air Ministry on behalf of a number of industrialists connected with the Tyne-side Industrial Board that they were prepared to erect factories on the Tyneside at their own charge for the purpose of producing balloon barrage plants, and that this offer was turned down on the ground that it would be redundant?
§ Earl WintertonHowever that may be, it does not alter the validity of the answer which I have given that this matter will be considered in the light of the experience gained in the development of the London barrage.
§ Mr. James GriffithsAre we to understand that there must be a war first before the barrage is considered for other areas?
§ Earl WintertonI am sure that the hon. Gentleman would not wish to do me an injustice, but that would be an unfair comment on my answer. This is a novel form of defence, and it is desired to try the effect of it when it is in full operation.
§ Mr. EdeIn view of the importance of the industrial population on the Tyneside in the event of an emergency, when does the Noble Lord expect to be able to say what steps will be taken?
§ Earl WintertonI cannot give a definite date, but perhaps it will interest the House to know that recruitment of the 403 auxiliary personnel for the barrage is expected to start in May this year, and I hope the response will be very considerable.