HC Deb 18 April 1946 vol 421 c2869
10. Colonel Clarke

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many cellars are still requisitioned for air-raid shelters; and the total rent paid out for them since VE-Day.

Mr. Ede

I regret that these particulars are not available. On 6th February, local authorities were given a wide discretion to release requisitioned basements without reference to the Department and it has not yet been possible to collect information as to the extent of the exercise of this discretionary power.

Colonel Clarke

Is the Minister aware that there is a good deal of anxiety that public funds are being unnecessarily spent in this country, and will he do anything he can to try to prevent that continuing?

Mr. Ede

I will try to do all I can to see that economy is effected with regard to these matters.