§ 46. Mr. Keelingasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Report of the United States Strategic Bombing Survey expresses doubt on the protective value of a black-out and recommends a critical appraisal of its usefulness; and whether the Government have reconsidered the advantages and disadvantages of a black-out in war.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)Yes, Sir. I am aware of the Report to which the hon. Member refers. His Majesty's Government is surveying Home Defence problems, including the advantages and disadvantages of a black-out in wartime. Full account will be taken in the survey of the lessons learnt during the last war.
§ Mr. KeelingIs the Prime Minister aware that this American Report is of great interest to people in this country, not only about the black-out but about many other matters, and will he endeavour to get it published?
§ Mr. AttleeSo far, public demand has not been sufficient to warrant asking the United States Government for permission for the Report to be published, but there are copies available in the Stationery Office, and if hon. Members wish to get one they will be able to do so. I will wait and see what demand there is, but so far it has not been very great.