HC Deb 03 July 1947 vol 439 c1509
67. Mr. Bowden

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what powers local authorities are compelling householders to dismantle and make available for collection Anderson shelters, many of which have been concreted into the ground.

Mr. Ede

Local authorities have no power of compulsion in the matter but, in order to accelerate the recovery of shelters and so increase steel supply with the minimum expenditure of labour they have been recommended to invite householders to dismantle their shelters in readiness for collection. My attention has been drawn to a particular case, which my hon. Friend perhaps has in mind, where the local authority has exceeded the advice given by my Department. I am in communication with the authority on the matter.

Mr. Bowden

Is my right hon. Friend aware that at least one local authority has stated that a medical certificate must be produced stating that there is infirmity before this work may be excused?

Mr. Ede

I think that is the authority which I have in mind, and I have communicated with them.