§ 29. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs to what extent, when making plans for the dispersal of sections of the population in the event of the danger of nuclear war, he takes into consideration the possibility that the evacuation of nine and a half million people at short notice would disorganise transport and result in additional danger to the population that is to be dispersed.
§ Mr. RipponPlans for dispersal will take into account the likely availability of public transport for home defence measures in an emergency. It would be for the Government to balance in the circumstances of the time the advantages and disadvantages of offering dispersal arrangements to members of the priority classes.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Minister think that it is time that the House was more fully informed about the question of the dispersal of the civilian population? Is he aware that there has been wide criticism of this scheme on the ground that it is hopelessly impracticable and a cruel fraud on the civilian population? In view of the fact that we have not had a civil defence debate for five years, when wild the Minister take some opportunity to make a fuller statement?
§ Mr. RipponI cannot order the business of the House for the hon. Gentleman. I cannot add anything to what is in Circular 15/62, issued on 28th March.
§ Mr. HughesIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of that Answer, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter at the earliest possible opportunity.