§ 21. Captain Sir Derrick Gunstonasked the Minister of Health what arrangements have been made to ensure that proper fire-fighting appliances and fire-escapes are provided in all buildings used for evacuation schemes for which the Ministry is directly or indirectly responsible?
§ Mr. E. BrownLocal authorities were instructed in a circular in August, 1940, to review the air-raid precautions necessary in residential institutions provided in connection with the Government's evacuation scheme, and the authorities responsible were required to satisfy themselves that reasonable steps were taken to provide fire-fighting equipment and to train personnel against the risk of fire. In approving residential premises for evacuation purposes my Regional staffs have always in mind the question of means of rapid escape in the event of fire.
§ Sir D. GunstonIs my right hon. Friend aware that many voluntary bodies have equipped homes for evacuated children? Do I understand that the Ministry of Health will provide fire-fighting appliances?
§ Mr. BrownNo, Sir, the duty there is on the shoulders of the local authority, subject, of course, to the instructions which we send them.
§ Sir D. GunstonBut is the Minister aware that local authorities are reluctant to do this? This should come from another area. The burden need not be on the Ministry of Health.
§ Mr. BrownIf my hon. and gallant Friend has any particular case that he would like to draw to my attention, I would look into it so that I could have it in focus and see what the problem might be.