HC Deb 09 November 1950 vol 480 cc1093-4
6. Mr. Perkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what scheme is in existence for training volunteers in bomb disposal in addition to the other forms of Civil Defence; and to whom should one apply.

Mr. de Freitas

Bomb disposal is at present a responsibility of the Army and not of the Civil Defence organisation. The responsibility for this work in any future war is being considered.

Mr. Perkins

Does the Minister realise that in the last war many men were trained in bomb disposal but are now too old for active service? Could not their experience be used in Civil Defence?

Mr. de Freitas

That is one of the factors which is being considered.

Mr. J. Langford-Holt

Can the hon. Gentleman say when consideration will result in a decision?

Mr. de Freitas

No, I cannot, but meanwhile the Army is responsible and they would do it as well as they did it last time.