HC Deb 17 November 1938 vol 341 c1081W
Mr. Parker

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether the Government intend to take powers to see that all new houses are provided, when built, with air-raid shelters adequate for their inhabitants?

Sir J. Anderson

I am not in a position at the moment to make a statement on this subject.

Mr. R. C. Morrison

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will provide facilities for unemployed men who have qualified as air-raid wardens to attend a course of training in order further to equip themselves for employment in the air-raid precautions service?

Mr. E. Brown

I presume that by facilities the hon. Member means the right to continue to draw unemployment benefit while undergoing training. This must depend on the circumstances and the governing provisions of the Unemployment Insurance Acts, but I have the matter under consideration.

Mr. Parker

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether the Government intend to license all builders of air-raid shelters; and, if not, what steps they propose to take to see that all such shelters are suitably constructed?

Sir J. Anderson

I think we must rely upon the general dissemination of knowledge of the standards and methods of construction considered necessary. This is being achieved by the issue of handbooks and memoranda and by the co-operation of the professional bodies of architects and engineers.