HC Deb 03 December 1953 vol 521 cc1303-4
34. Mr. Shurmer

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that many air raid shelters in courtyards and on bombed sites in Birmingham, are a menace to the health of the people and also a help to crime; and if he will now give permission for these shelters to be demolished.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

As regards danger to health, I am prepared to authorise demolition in any case where the medical officer of health certifies that it is essential on health grounds. As regards crime, I am informed that the police asked for the blocking up of the entrances to a number of shelters. That work has now been done and the police are satisfied.

Mr. Shurmer

Is the Home Secretary aware that, while these air raid shelters were necessary during the war, it is now eight years since the end of the war, and that many of these shelters are within four or five feet of people's homes? There is only one outlet, they prevent children from playing and also prevent people who have small houses from using their yards in order to hang out washing. Is he aware that the Birmingham Medical Officer of Health has already said that they are detrimental to health? Furthermore, is the Home Secretary aware that he is impinging upon the byelaws of Birmingham, which lay down that no building shall be within 12 feet of a house?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I hope no one will suggest that all Civil Defence shelters should be demolished. We are continuing the policy of our predecessors in that they should be preserved as part of the Civil Defence effort. I have already said, and I repeat, that I am prepared to consider demolition where the medical officer of health certifies that it is essential on health grounds.