HC Deb 18 January 1945 vol 407 cc364-5
78. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is now able to relax the prohibition on the use of whistles.

Mr. H. Morrison

I have come to the conclusion that in present circumstances it is possible to relax throughout the country the ban on the use of whistles worked otherwise than by mechanical power, and on handbells. An Order amending the Control of Noise (Defence) (No. 2) Order, 1939, has now been made. It is intended to continue the use of whistles and handbells for Civil Defence and Fireguard signals as in the past, although I recognise that their use for other purposes may in certain circumstances reduce the significance of the signal. If conditions change it may be necessary to impose again the restrictions now removed.

Mr. Woodburn

Does the right hon. Gentleman's answer mean that men with delivery vans can now use all the normal methods of attracting their customers in villages and elsewhere?

Mr. Morrison

It means that my hon. Friend has got what he wants. I hope that the people will now enjoy all the noises that may result.