§ 40. Mr. McKinlayasked the Home Secretary whether he is now satisfied that the rescue and demolition squads in Glasgow should be restored to their former strength?
§ Mr. MabaneMy right hon. Friend would require further evidence that an increase of the number of whole-time men at present authorised and maintained is needed. The city authorities have been urged over a period of several months to take steps to recruit part-time volunteers whose services would be available to supplement the whole-time men in case of need. As yet, however, no effective measures have been taken to this end.
§ Mr. McKinlayIs the hon. Gentleman aware that such steps were taken and that the feeling is widespread in Glasgow that many of the 640 people who lost their 854 lives there might have been rescued had it not been for the reduction of the service by 500 of the personnel originally set up?
§ Mr. MabaneI am not aware that any steps were taken to recruit part-time rescue parties. What can be done is to train first-aid parties in rescue work, which goes far to solve the difficulty.
§ Mr. McKinlayWill the Minister accept my assurance as a member of the local authority that steps were taken? If the steps failed, that is no answer. I want to ascertain whether the Minister is prepared to restore the strength authorised by the Home Department with paid full-time personnel in Glasgow.
§ Mr. MabaneIt is difficult to believe that Glasgow cannot recruit any part-time rescue party workers, in view of the results that have been achieved in many other parts of the country.