§ Mr. Stokesasked the Home Secretary whether he is still prepared to make grants to local authorities for the construction of deep shelters in danger areas; and why, for a limited scheme for Ipswich, a proposal was turned down by the Regional Commissioner because he had no money, materials being available locally?
§ Miss WilkinsonThere has been no change of policy in this respect. We are prepared to consider schemes for deep tunnel shelters in places where the technical conditions are favourable. I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of a circular which was sent to local authorities for their guidance in this matter. As regards the proposal referred to by my hon. Friend I am informed that the rejection of the project was not based on financial considerations. The scheme was carefully considered on its merits but the Regional Commissioner came to the conclusion that it was wholly unsuited to the local conditions and circumstances.