HC Deb 09 December 1941 vol 376 cc1381-2
42. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Home Secretary why the Regional Commissioner for Scotland has decided that the issue of travel vouchers must now be stopped; whether he is aware that, in a number of cases, this will mean either the separation of families or the return of a number of persons to danger areas in which accommodation is inadequate; and whether, in view of the discontent that will ensue on this order, he will instruct the Regional Commissioner to withdraw it?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Home Security (Miss Wilkinson)

With my right hon. Friend's approval, the Regional Commissioner has decided to terminate this Scheme by stages during the next few weeks because billets reasonably near their places of work are how available for all workers concerned. While they will not be prevented from bringing their families back, I would strongly urge them not to do so. Even if it involves separation, it is better to leave them in a safe area.

Mr. Kirkwood

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that in my constituency tens of thousands of people have been blasted out of Clydebank and are now scattered within a 30-mile radius? Is he further aware that in the midst of winter the Commissioner has decided to stop the issue of vouchers, which is causing terrible discontent? This feeling of discontent will get out of bounds unless something is done. Unless the Government make some concession, they will hear of something serious in the matter.

Miss Wilkinson

I can only say that we have inquired into the position. Travel vouchers were introduced for those who had to travel considerable distances because they had been bombed out. It was understood that these vouchers were to be provided until the homes were repaired. Our information is that these homes are now repaired.

Mr. Kirkwood

That is a damned lie.

Miss Wilkinson

I am sure the hon. Member does not really mean to say that I am not giving him the facts to the best of our knowledge. I will certainly make further inquiries, but the position, as we understand it, is that there are either houses repaired or billets available for the workers.

Mr. Kirkwood

I wish at once to withdraw what I said. I did not mean to say that her ladyship was lying, but the information which the House has just received is inaccurate. It is not true that there are thousands of homes ready for the people of Clydebank. Thousands of these people have been dispersed all over the country. Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I will raise the matter again on the Adjournment.