HC Deb 23 February 1956 vol 549 cc559-60
35. Mr. Royle

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will now give complete discretion to local authorities for the demolition or removal of domestic surface air-raid shelters which have become a threat to health.

Major Lloyd-George

I am always prepared to agree to demolition when it is shown to be essential on medical grounds, but I think it is desirable to retain central control over demolition of shelters at public expense.

Mr. Royle

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that that Answer is quite inadequate, and that in the City of Salford 9,000 of these shelters are still in existence, most of them in small backyards, cutting out the light from kitchens and sculleries? Cannot the Home Secretary trust the officials of these responsible authorities to use their own discretion in such matters? In any case, what use would these shelters be as protection in a modern war?

Major Lloyd-George

That question does not enter into the matter at the moment. With regard to the health aspect, to which the hon. Member referred, if local authorities proposed action of this kind on the ground of health, so far as I am aware there is no opposition at all. If the hon. Member has any particular case in mind, I should be grateful if he would let me know.