HC Deb 14 July 1983 vol 45 c1003
12. Mr. Bill Walker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many local authorities have carried out surveys of the protective factor of residential accommodation as recommended in circular ES3/81.

Mr. Hurd

No central record is kept. The new draft regulations laid on July 12 will, if approved, require local authorities to make plans for instructing and advising the public on protective measures to be taken against the effects of hostile attack.

Mr. Walker

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Does he agree that such surveys require a substantial resource base and, even using voluntary levy, the authorities concerned may require assistance? Will my right hon. Friend's Department see that discussions take place to ensure that this happens?

Mr. Hurd

I agree with my hon. Friend. These surveys would attract civil defence grant in the usual way.