§ Mr. Parkerasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that there is considerable disquiet in Dagenham and neighbourhood at the classification of that area as a neutral zone in time of war; and whether he will reconsider his decision not to make it an evacuation area in view of its exposed position in time of war?
§ Mr. BernaysI am aware of the representations which have been made by the local authority. Priority must be given in an evacuation plan to the claims of children in the crowded cities where the effects of air attack would be most serious, and the list of evacuable areas has been based on that view. When the survey of accommodation in the reception areas is completed the Government will be in a position to consider whether any extension of the present list is feasible and the town council have been informed that their claim will be considered in this connection together with those of other districts.