§ 64. Mr. Daggarasked the Home Secretary when the duties of an air-raid warden commence; and whether, in view of the distance in some areas between the homes of air-raid wardens and their posts, he will consider the question of allowing the wardens to take their equipment home?
§ Sir J. AndersonNormally the warden's duty commences from the time when he attends at his post and reports for duty; but in the event of an emergency call it starts from the time he receives that call. Local authorities already have discretion, subject to certain limitations, to make a personal issue of steel helmets and respirators to members of the Civil Defence Services.
§ Mr. DaggarDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that in fairness to these people their duties should start immediately they leave their own homes?
§ Sir J. AndersonThat point is being met as far as possible by issuing these items of equipment to the persons concerned as personal issues.
§ Mr. DaggarThat does not reply to my Question. Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the duties of the wardens should commence immediately they leave their homes?
§ Sir J. AndersonThat is so in the case of an emergency call. Otherwise, I do not think it arises.