§ Sir G. Foxasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the importance of the smooth working of the scheme of evacuation and billeting in war, he will state how the existing scheme has worked to date; and whether it is proposed to obtain by Parliamentary sanction the powers to carry out such billeting?
§ Mr. LloydMy hon. Friend will be aware that the scheme improvised in the recent emergency was not put to the test except as regards the evacuation of a relatively small number of children under arrangements made by the London County Council. The preliminary measures, however, disclosed a number of matters of detail which are receiving attention in framing long-term plans. It would, of course, be necessary to obtain Parliamentary sanction for any powers exercised in the billeting of refugees.
§ Mr. O. Lewisasked the Home Secretary whether he will have specifications and plans prepared of the various types of permanent air-raid shelters suitable for erection in connection with dwelling-houses and business premises; and whether he will make these available to the general public in the form of a booklet?
§ Sir S. HoareMy hon. Friend's suggestion will be considered, but I would point out that an exact specification suitable for all types of building would be difficult. The general principles have been indicated in A.R.P. Handbook No. 6, which is on sale, and so far as possible these will be amplified.