HC Deb 13 November 1957 vol 577 cc948-9
53. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Defence what steps he is taking to increase the proportion of defence expenditure now allocated to Civil Defence.

Mr. Sandys

Expenditure on Civil Defence is being examined in relation to other defence expenditure.

Mr. Hughes

Is the Minister aware that there is a general opinion that the Government are not paying sufficient attention to Civil Defence compared with military offensive strategy? Will he examine the proposals for evacuating 12 million people in the event of war; and can he give any explanation and show hon. Members how this operation is possible?

Mr. Sandys

Civil Defence can help to mitigate the consequences of nuclear attack, but quite obviously it cannot provide security. That is why it is our policy to put the emphasis, so far as possible, on active measures designed to deter aggression altogether.

Major Legge-Bourke

Will my right hon. Friend consider the possibility of changing the title of this activity from "defence" to "relief and rescue"?

Mr. Hughes

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the Minister's reply, I beg to give notice that I will endeavour to raise the matter on the Adjournment.