HC Deb 08 May 1962 vol 659 cc205-6
24. Mr. P. Noel-Baker

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what policy he has now adopted for the evacuation of mothers and children from towns and cities in the event of war; and to what parts of the country they will be sent.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Geoffrey Rippon)

The Government's policy is that dispersal plans should be prepared in case they were needed in an emergency. Under the dispersal scheme for England and Wales, the reception areas are in parts of west England, south-east England and Wales.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the Parliamentary Secretary ask his right hon. Friend to let the House have an intelligible statement about what his policy is? Is he aware that at present there is great confusion and anxiety in the minds both of local authorities and of the general public because of the vague statements which the Government make?

Mr. Rippon

If the right hon. Gentleman looks at Circular 15 of 1962 issued on 28th March, he will see a general statement of policy, which is pretty clear. We are considering with the local authority associations a further circular on the detailed arrangements which they may be called upon to make.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that I have looked at that circular and find it most unsatisfactory?

Mr. Rippon

I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will find the next one more satisfactory.