HC Deb 03 August 1944 vol 402 cc1575-6
38. Mr. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that the Heavy Rescue Services are only provided with one antiquated flare to each station; and will he take immediate steps to see that an adequate supply of modern electric lamps are provided so that life-saving will no longer be handicapped for lack of proper illumination.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

I am not aware that life-saving has been handicapped by lack of proper illumination, and it is not the case that only one antiquated flare is available at each depot of the Heavy Rescue Service in London. The service is supplied with acetylene flares, small electric floodlights and larger floodlighting sets for connection to electric main supplies. It also has a call on National Fire Service lighting equipment and portable lighting equipment from other sources. The question of the adequacy of lighting arrangements is carefully watched.

Mr. Robertson

Is it not a fact that the L.C.C. ordered the equipment, but, unfortunately, none of it has been received? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that dance spotlights, car headlamps and other improvised equipment are being used in some cases?

Mr. Morrison

If my hon. Friend has individual cases of difficulty and will let me know, I will look into them, but, if I may say so, he has a slight tendency to make sweeping accusations which are not always well founded.

Mr. Robertson

Arising out of that——

Mr. Speaker

Sir Ronald Ross.

Mr. Robertson

On a point of Order. Has any hon. Member of this House the right to make accusations, such as the right hon. Gentleman has made against me, without giving the House one single instance of what is in his mind?

Mr. Speaker

I did not hear the right hon. Gentleman make an accusation against the hon. Member.