HC Deb 10 December 1941 vol 376 cc1517-8
36. Mr. David Adams

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he is now in a position, in view of the difficulties which many local authorities experience in finding suitable premises for British Restaurants, for day nursery and for many other purposes, and in view, also, of the need in certain areas for increased dormitory accommodation, to release materials for surface concrete shelters capable also of being put to the aforementioned day-time uses?

Mr. Hicks

It is doubtful whether surface concrete shelters would be suitable for the alternative purposes mentioned, but if any such proposals were approved by the Departments concerned and labour was available, I would give all possible assistance in making available the materials required.

Mr. Adams

Will the Parliamentary Secretary take my assurance that in the opinion of several local authorities on the North-East Coast the shelters suggested would be suitable, and can I assure them of his promise to supply the necessary materials?

Mr. Hicks

It is the duty of the local authorities who hold that view to approach the Government Departments concerned to see whether they support them in that point of view. If they support them I will give all possible assistance in making available the materials required.