§ 29. Mr. Tom Brownasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that the present blackout regulations prevent the use of orchard heaters, with consequent damage to fruit crops by frost; and if he will consider relaxing this restriction until the fruit crop is safe.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonNo, Sir. Arrangements have been in force, since the early days of the war, by which, subject to suitable safeguards, growers may obtain permission to use orchard heaters, as required, during the period when fruit may be damaged by frost.
§ Mr. BrownIs the Minister aware that there has been misunderstanding, owing to certain statements in the Press; and will he not put out a definite regulation on the subject?
§ Mr. MorrisonI have stated the position. The "suitable safeguards" are that the heaters should not be used during air attacks, and that the police should be informed, so that no difficulty will arise, while it may not be possible to grant exemptions near vital points. There have been statements in the Press, based on inaccurate information; and I am sure that the newspaper, or newspapers, concerned will now put the matter right.