§ Mr. Daggarasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that considerable confusion exists amongst the chief officials of local authorities with regard, in the event of emergency, to the exercise of compulsory powers, and that, in spite of the Defence Regulations and other general powers, many of the officials may hesitate to act because of the apprehended danger of an action for damages if they exceed their powers; and will he give consideration to the existing need for a clear and simple authoritative statement setting out what powers may be exercised without any consents and which require the previous consent of the appropriate Department of State?
§ Mr. AttleeI will arrange for the matter referred to by my hon. Friend to be considered by the appropriate Departments with a view to the issue in such form as may be practicable of guidance to local authorities which may serve to remove such doubts as may exist.