§ 41 and 43. Mr. Ian Harveyasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) from what source it is proposed to obtain the personnel required to man the prototype Civil Defence mobile column for the period 1954–55; and whether, in view of the success of the experiments with this column, he will press for the call-up to Civil Defence of National Service men for this purpose;
(2) whether he will make a statement with regard to future policy for the establishment of Civil Defence mobile columns.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeIn 1954, as in 1953, men for the Civil Defence experimental mobile column are being drawn partly from the Army and partly from the Royal Air Force. As regards the future development of mobile columns, I cannot at present add anything to the statement I made in reply to my hon. Friend on 29th January.
§ Mr. HarveyIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that the development of these columns is regarded by all those concerned with Civil Defence as extremely important? Will he do what he can to hasten a decision on this matter?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeCertainly. I hope that a further statement will be made very shortly.