HC Deb 23 July 1940 vol 363 c597
39. Mr. J. J. Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of recent events, he intends to alter the definition of North-East of Scotland areas as neutral areas for evacuation purposes?

The Secretary of State far Scotland (Mr. Ernest Brown)

Certain changes in the Government evacuation scheme have recently been made, but it is not in the public interest to give particulars.

Mr. R. Gibson

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this is not so much a question of evacuation as of the provision of adequate air-raid defences, especially in the matter of anti-aircraft guns?

Mr. Brown

That is not the Question on the Paper. But I would point out that there is a number of other factors to he taken into consideration.

Mr. Davidson

Can the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that in view of the circumstances in this area, which has suffered considerably, it will be definitely declared as a neutral area and not an area for the reception of children?

Mr. Brown

I can give the assurance that the situation is being watched from day to day.