§ 61. Sir Leonard Lyleasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he can make an up-to-date statement regarding the duty of the public to carry, or not to carry, gas-masks?
§ The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)I have nothing to add to the statement 1766 which I made to the House on 30th July last, when I indicated that if and when there was any reason for a change of policy I would advise the public without delay.
§ Sir L. LyleIs it not a fact that the principal officer of the A.R.P. Department of the Ministry of Home Security has stated that in his opinion Hitler will use gas, and that Lord Halifax has said the same thing? Is it not undesirable that the British public should receive contradictory advice?
§ Mr. MorrisonI do not recall that advice having been given. Everybody is entitled to his opinion. The British Government have expressed their opinion at the moment, though that opinion may have to be changed.