§ Mr. Silkinasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that a considerable number of residential properties in urban areas are being used as furniture repositories; that the fire risk is thereby materially increased; and whether he will consider giving local authorities effective control over the use of such property?
§ Miss WilkinsonResidential properties used as furniture repositories are treated as business premises under the Fire Prevention Orders and the occupier is responsible for making proper and adequate arrangements in regard to fire prevention.612W Where arrangements cannot be made without the assistance of the local authority, the authority may assume control under Defence Regulation 27B (3) to such an extent as it considers necessary of any arrangements made by the occupier.
§ Mr. Emeryasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the attitude of a Congregational minister in Scunthorpe regarding fire-watching services, of which he has been informed; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Miss WilkinsonNo persons are exempt from registration under the Civil Defence Duties (Compulsory Enrolment) Order, 1941, except those falling in certain categories specified in the Schedule to the Order. These categories do not include ministers of religion. Any person not exempted who refuses to register renders himself liable to prosecution under the Defence Regulations.