HC Deb 09 October 1940 vol 365 cc366-7
33. Mr. Stokes

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that, in the opinion of competent engineers, deep bomb-proof tunnels could be dug in London for the whole of the population of 6,000,000 for a total cost of £120,000,000; that such tunnels could be used after the war for relief of traffic congestion; and whether, in view of the Government's declared opinion that the war will last three years, he will give instructions for this work to be put in hand forthwith?

Mr. Mabane

The estimate given in the first part of my hon. Friend's Question does not accord with the view taken by the Conference under the chairmanship of Lord Hailey which reported on this problem in April, 1939. If my hon. Friend will send me a statement of the professional opinion on which his estimate is based, my right hon. Friend would be very glad to arrange for it to be considered by his expert advisers.

Mr. Stokes

Is not the Parliamentary Secretary aware that it is now nearly two years since I sent the Minister information as to those with whom he could get into touch, and that no action has been taken?

Mr. Mabane

Information given two years ago might now be out of date.

Mr. Stokes

But still the tunnels are not built, and they ought to be.

Sir A. Lambert Ward

Would not the construction of these deep dugouts require material which at the moment is badly needed for the manufacture of armaments?

Mr. Sorensen

Let the civilians die.

36. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Home Secretary whether he has now given instructions to local authorities in London and elsewhere that disinfecting sprays be furnished for public shelters and be used at regular intervals in the shelters each day and night?

Mr. Mabane

On the general question of disinfection of air-raid shelters, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the Question which he asked yesterday. The particular suggestion made in the present Question is one of the matters which is now under urgent technical examination.

Mr. Sorensen

Can the Minister say when we are likely to get the report?

Mr. Mabane

No, Sir.