§ 47. Major Legge-Bourkeasked the Prime Minister for what reason the decision to proceed with Civil Defence recruiting at the same time leaving the Home Guard in abeyance, was taken.
§ The Prime MinisterIn my recent broadcast to the country, I explained the reasons for which the Government decided to proceed with Civil Defence preparations and recruiting for part-time services. The Government have under consideration the question of raising a Home Guard in a future emergency, and a statement will be made as soon as possible.
§ Major Legge-BourkeWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that if it should ever become necessary to call up Civil Defence personnel it is highly probable that it would be necessary also to have the Home Guard in being? Will he not so delay the decision to recruit the Home Guard that there is time properly to train people commensurately with Civil Defence?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not think I can accept the statement of the hon. and gallant Member. It must depend on what is the kind of danger facing the country, but the question of the Home Guard is one which must be considered with the general matter of Armed Forces.