HC Deb 30 November 1939 vol 355 cc229-31
37. Mr. Levy

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now able to make a statement on the modification of the black-out?

Sir J. Anderson

As indicated in answers to previous questions, constant research and experiment have been in progress with a view to mitigating the inconveniences of the black-out within the limits of the general policy, which must be maintained. As a result, greatly improved systems of internal lighting for trains and public service vehicles have been devised and are being installed as rapidly as possible. A method of lighting goods in shop windows has also been approved and full particulars of the very simple device required will be made generally available within a few days. A large-scale experiment in street lighting by low intensity lamps has been for some time awaiting favourable conditions for air observation and I will make an announcement on the subject as soon as I have received the report of the Air Staff.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind the fact that in Glasgow they have a black-out day and night because of the black paper that is pasted on the windows of all the trams and buses, and will he try to make some other arrangements so that the people can see during the day?

Sir J. Anderson

As I have explained, there is no necessity if the approved method of lighting is used, for any obscuration of the windows.

Sir Henry Morris-Jones

Will my right hon. Friend consider, in conjunction with the First Commissioner of Works, the question of the lighting of the precincts of this House? Is there any reason whatsoever why Westminster Hall should be in complete gloom?

Sir J. Anderson

That is not a matter in which I have any jurisdiction.

57. Mr. Garro Jones

asked the Home Secretary whether he has in contemplation any measures to mitigate the hardship which falls upon open-air workers, such as shipyard workers, who are not able to work full time in the open air owing to black-out restrictions; and whether, in particular, he will devise some scheme for the special warning of such important branches of activity which would enable them to work under partially-screened lights, subject to their being extinguished on such special warnings being given?

Sir J. Anderson

Schemes of suitably screened lighting to be extinguished on receipt of an air-raid warning have already been devised for various industries, including shipbuilding, where essential outside work has to be done. If the hon. Member has any particular industry in mind, I will have particulars of the scheme sent to him if it is one of those which has been dealt with.

Mr. Garro Jones

Has the right hon. Gentleman observed that the particular industry which I have in mind is specified in the question, and will he state whether the measures which he has instigated have been applied in Aberdeen?

Sir J. Anderson

A scheme has been drawn up for the shipbuilding industry, and it is open to any shipbuilders in Aberdeen to avail themselves of its provisions.

Mr. Garro Jones

Has the right hon. Gentleman considered that part of my question which deals with the effect upon workers who are not able to take advantage of the scheme, and therefore, lose a large proportion of their wages?

Sir J. Anderson

I cannot understand why that should arise, because the scheme, when it is introduced, affects all workers equally.