§ Mr. Thorneasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the instruction made by the London Regional Commissioners in connection with fire-watchers, and of the fire-watchers' objection to the new instruction; and what action he intends taking about the matter?
§ Mr. MabaneYes, Sir. I understand the objection raised by volunteers is to performing fire prevention duties in parts of the area of their local authority at a distance from their own homes. Unless an undertaking to do this is given it may be difficult to cover the area without recourse to compulsory enrolment. Accordingly, it is not right that persons unwilling to give the undertaking should be granted the full privileges of Civil Defence volunteers. Further instructions, however, are being issued to make it clear that those not giving this undertaking but prepared to perform 48 hours fire prevention duty a month in the neighbourhood of their homes will be eligible for equipment and for compensation in respect of injuries sustained on duty.