HC Deb 26 October 1939 vol 352 cc1561-3
63. Mr. Groves

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that the land in and around the district of South Benfleet, Essex, is so waterlogged that in many cases the Anderson steel shelters, although treated with concrete bases and bitumen within, are half filled with water and useless; whether he has been in communication with the urban district council with respect to the provision of a more efficient type of structure; and what conclusions has he arrived at with respect to the sanction of a further sum of money for such purpose?

Sir J. Anderson

I understand that difficulties have been experienced in this district owing to the flooding of the shelters, this being due partly to subsoil water in certain parts of the district and partly to the recent quite abnormal rainfall. The information in my possession, however, does not indicate that the standard steel shelter is generally unsuitable in South Benfleet. My Department's Regional Technical Adviser has discussed the matter with the local authority and has suggested various remedial measures, which it is hoped will prove successful, and the local authority have already been told that the expenditure involved will rank for Government grant under the Air-Raid Precautions Act.

Mr. R. C. Morrison

Will the right hon. Gentleman see to it that the remedial measures which have been suggested for South Benfleet will be extended to other districts?

Sir J. Anderson

I think the hon. Gentleman knows that I will do my best in this matter, but the rainfall has been quite exceptional.

Mr. Simmonds

Would the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is yet available a standard Home Office shelter for use in waterlogged grounds?

Sir J. Anderson

Certainly.

Mr. Groves

Does the right hon. Gentleman know that two-thirds of the shelters in that area contain about four feet of water? I happen to know, because I live there.

76. Mr. Thorne

asked the Home Secretary whether he can give any information in connection with the flooding of air-raid shelters; and whether any advice has been sent to the Hornsey and other local authorities?

Sir J. Anderson

I am aware that the recent abnormal rainfall has caused the flooding of a considerable number of shelters. General advice on this head was issued to local authorities in July last, and my regional technical advisers are watching the present position closely in consultation with the local authorities. In Homsey, to which the hon. Member has made particular reference, there has been severe flooding, and a special experimental plan, which promises good results, is being tried out by the borough authorities.

Mr. Thorne

Will local authorities continue to get advice?

Sir J. Anderson

Yes, certainly.