§ 40. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will arrange a Civil Defence demonstration at Westminster to inform hon. Members what action would be taken in the event of a hydrogen bomb explosion over London.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeCivil Defence exercises are held from time to time in different parts of the country, but it is a self-evident proposition that Civil Defence arrangements and services will be necessary to deal with the after effects of attack from the air by whatever agency caused or on however large a scale and I do not think that a demonstration such as that proposed by the hon. Member is necessary for the purpose suggested.
§ Mr. HughesWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman explain why these Civil Defence exercises are necessary in Coventry but not here?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI think we did discuss that point—
§ Mr. HughesWe did not.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeWe discussed the question of the Coventry exercise. I think it has been made public that, in accordance with the general feeling of the House, I am meeting a deputation from Coventry, and I would rather not go into that now.
§ 41. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will define more clearly his policy of dispersal in the event of an hydrogen bomb explosion over London.
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeI am not yet in a position to add to the statement which I made in answer to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Harrow, East (Mr. Ian Harvey) on 27th May, but I would point out that in my reference in that statement to dispersal I had in contemplation measures to be taken in 2271 advance of attack and not, as the hon. Member appears to contemplate. after it.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that this answer is even more unsatisfactory and nebulous than the last one? Has he any idea at all of what is to be done to save the population of a big city like London?
§ Sir D. Maxwell FyfeYes, I have ideas. The matter is under the most serious consideration, but I do not think I can make a statement for a little time yet.