§ Mr. Keelingasked the Home Secretary whether he would welcome the establishment by county councils in vulnerable areas of schools for anti-gas training similar to the school recently established by the Surrey County Council; and whether he will give financial aid to such schools?
§ Mr. LloydMy right hon. Friend has welcomed the establishment by the Surrey County Council of their local anti-gas training school, and he would be glad to see any other local authorities do the same if they consider that this method is preferable to the alternative of sending the instructor to the places where the persons to be trained are to be found. The method of having a central training establishment has been adopted in several towns, and in towns it may be assumed to be the most convenient arrangement. The question whether it is suitable for counties will depend on local circumstances. In regard to the question of Government assistance, I am afraid I have at present nothing to add to my reply given on 8th April, 1937.
Mr. Jenkinsasked the Home Secretary whether the Government have now reached a decision as to the grant to be paid to local government bodies in connection with expenditure on air-raid precautions; and will a grant from State funds be made to owners of works and factories who provide air-raid precautions for their workpeople?
§ Mr. LloydI regret I am not yet in a position to add anything to the reply given on 8th April. The whole financial position is still under review.