HC Deb 17 April 1940 vol 359 cc959-60
35. Mr. Cassells

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the protected area covers practically 40 per cent. of Scotland, and that the present regulations, unless relaxed, will have a very serious effect upon Scotland generally; and is he prepared to authorise that the local registrar or the police authorities should be empowered to issue permits if nationality and character could be vouched for?

The Financial Secretary to the War Office (Sir Edward Grigg)

I am aware that the Protected Areas Orders cover a large proportion of the area of Scotland, and their effect is fully appreciated. It is not considered practicable that the local registrars or police should assume responsibility for inquiries into the credentials of applicants for permits.

Mr. Cassells

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the proposal contained in this particular Question was unanimously adopted by the Convention of Royal Burghs in Scotland within the last two weeks?

Sir E. Grigg

I was not aware of that fact, but I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we are doing our utmost to mitigate any inconvenience, and I am in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland about it. But I think he and the House will also recognise, in the light of what has happened elsewhere, that considerations of security must be predominant.

Sir Archibald Sinclair

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that one of the worst grievances of the local people is that people, whose home is in the area but who work outside it, are able to get permits to go home and visit their families only if they state that they can go on certain dates, but if they want to visit a sick relative or a brother, or go home when a brother is coming on leave from the Front, it is impossible for them to state the specific date beforehand; and should not the permits, therefore, be issued to people whose homes are in the area without a limited effect?

Sir E. Grigg

Yes, Sir, I am aware of that difficulty, and we do our best to meet it. But I am sure that the right hon. Gentleman will recognise that the issue of standing permits would be subject to great objection.

Mr. Cassells

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.

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