HC Deb 17 October 1940 vol 365 cc813-4
56. Mr. Higgs (for Mr. Simmonds)

asked the Home Secretary whether he will authorise the erection of Anderson shelters within houses provided suitable precautions for exit are made?

Mr. H. Morrison

I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of a circular recently issued by my Department, from which he will see that while the possibilities of tins suggestion have already been brought to the notice of local authorities they are unfortunately of limited application.

Mr. Higgs

Is the Minister aware of the inadequate provision of shelters in very densely populated areas of cities like Birmingham, and, if he cannot see his way to comply with that request, would he expedite the strengthening of all cellars in small houses?

Mr. Morrison

That is a matter primarily for the Birmingham Corporation. If Members for Birmingham take the view that something more can be done, and will let me have particulars, I shall be very glad to take appropriate action through the Regional Commissioner.

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