HC Deb 01 February 1940 vol 356 c1250
63. Mr. Gallacher

asked the Home Secretary which local authorities have submitted schemes for heavily protected air-raid shelters; which ones have actually carried out such schemes, and how many have been refused sanction so to do; and in what places have heavily protected shelters, as described in handbook 5a, been provided?

Sir J. Anderson

As I recently informed the hon. Member, local authorities have put forward a number of proposals for more strongly protected shelters. These proposals have generally been dependent upon the use of existing natural features capable of ready adaptation and, in pursuance of the Government's policy, approval has not been given except when that was the case.

Mr. Gallacher

In the case of North Queensferry, so well known to the Minister, in view of the fact that public servants there are right opposite the target, the Forth Bridge, will he not give encouragement to the provision of bombproof shelters along the cliff side?

Sir J. Anderson

No, Sir, I do not think that would be the best method of dealing with that particular case.

Mr. R. Gibson

Can the Minister say how many of these proposals have come from Scotland?

Sir J. Anderson

Not off-hand.