§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Home Secretary (1) whether he is aware that instructions have been issued to Hendon to the effect that 10s. should be the weekly sum paid for rooms used as wardens' posts, whereas in Southgate instructions have been received that this sum should be 5s.; and, in view of the discontent that has arisen, due to this inconsistent advice, he will state by whom these instructions were issued;
(2) Whether he is aware that the county valuer of the Middlesex County Council has stated in correspondence that he has received instructions that an amount of 5s. weekly should cover all expenses in regard to rooms used as airraid wardens' posts; and whether such instructions were issued on his authority?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe posts referred to are temporary posts in use pending the completion of permanent posts. When the question of payment was first raised it related only to out-of-pocket expenses, and approval was given on 28th September to a payment of 5s. per week to cover out-of-pocket expenses such as lighting and heating. Subsequently authority was given for an additional payment by way of rental up to 5s., and a letter to this effect was addressed to the Middlesex County Council on nth November.
§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Home Secretary whether he will consider issuing official instructions, or suggestions, as to what should be the weekly charge paid for the use of rooms as wardens' posts; and whether he is aware that the uncertainty that exists at present on this matter is causing a great deal of friction?
§ Sir J. AndersonIn view of the differences between various rooms used as wardens' posts, I should hesitate to attempt to standardise the rates of payment for such use. I have not hitherto had brought to my notice any evidence that any widespread difficulty is arising.