HC Deb 01 March 1944 vol 397 cc1399-400
12. Mr. Astor

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works what arrangements are in operation whereby bulldozers, under the control of his Department, can be made available to clear up debris after air-raids; and whether he will, as a matter of urgency, consider improving them.

Mr. Hicks

The local authority responsible for the clearance of debris notifies the Emergency Works Officer of the Ministry of Works if any additional plant is required. All such requests for plant have been met, where necessary, by transfer from new construction works. It is not considered that any variation of the arrangements in operation is necessary.

Mr. Astor

Is my hon. Friend aware that the system used for clearing up debris is all too reminiscent of the Walrus and the Carpenter—50 maids with 50 mops, sweeping for half a year? Will he seriously consider trying to make mechanical appliances speedily available after raids?

Mr. Hicks

I cannot say about the first part of the question, but I will say that the demand for all this plant is greater than the supply and that it would not be possible to make arrangements which would involve plants being kept for an emergency.