§ 20. Mr. Kenneth Lindsayasked the Home Secretary how many Civil Defence Cadet units are now in existence?
§ Mr. LindsayIn view of the success of the Liverpool Cadet Unit and the shortage of Civil Defence workers to which the right hon. Gentleman has just referred, would he consult with the President of the Board of Education and the Regional Commissioner in London to try and get something done, because this matter is simply falling between two or three different Departments? There is great enthusiasm among London boys to enrol in this kind of unit.
Mr. MorrisonThat aspect of the matter is under consideration, but conditions vary in different parts of the country, and it is not in every district that this particular system is considered to be appropriate. There are various voluntary youth organisations not under this name which are helping in Civil Defence, and the Board of Education have actively encouraged the formation of Youth Service Corps in a considerable number of places, 50 at least. I will, however, further consider the point which the hon. Gentleman has made.
§ Mr. LindsayWhile being grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his answer, may I ask him where in any large urban unit there is a successful unit? If I can assure him there is not, will he look into the matter further, particularly in London, where there are thousands of boys anxious to join?
Mr. MorrisonI will. As I have stated, I do not discourage them at all. I encourage them where it is appropriate and will look further into the matter with a view to possible further development.