HC Deb 27 November 1941 vol 376 cc887-8
56. Dr. Howitt

asked the Home Secretary whether he will instruct the chief officers of police to report to him on the possibility of licensing the use of more short-wave high-frequency instruments, such licences to be subject to the apparatus being completely screened and to be issued only to practitioners, whether private or in hospitals and clinics, for whose character and integrity the police can vouch, and whose premises would be regularly inspected by the police to check the screening?

Mr. H. Morrison

The proposal made by my hon. Friend is one which was carefully considered before the Control of High-Frequency Apparatus Order was made, and I regret that in view of the security considerations involved I should not feel justified in adopting it.

Dr. Howitt

Could the right hon. Gentleman have tests made to, find out how far these rays travel? It is generally supposed that they travel only 10 to 15 yards, and if that is true there cannot be much danger.

Mr. Morrison

I do not think it is desirable that we should discuss details in public. My Department does keep up to date in these things, and we will continue to make observations and to collect information.

Dr. Howitt

Has a test been made about how far these rays will travel?

Mr. Morrison

I cannot say.