§ Mr. John R. Thomasasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that in order to minimise damage to the houses and contents by the blast from big gun practice firing, the inhabitants of St. Margaret's Bay have to have their windows and doors open; and will he either have the guns removed from the immediate vicinity of the village or give instructions that firing practice should cease during the winter months and so enable the inhabitants of St. Margaret's to enjoy their homes without damage and discomfort.
ShinwellRecent firing of heavy guns in the St. Margaret's Bay area has been necessary to carry out important trials. These trials have been finished and no further firing of heavy guns is contemplated, but I cannot promise that it will never be necessary. The firing of medium guns must continue at intervals for the training of National Service men. These guns are about one mile from the nearest houses in St. Margaret's Bay and fire only a reduced charge. This firing has no adverse effect on military buildings in the immediate neighbourhood and is unlikely to cause damage or discomfort to the residents or their property.