Mrs. Adamsonasked the Home Secretary whether it is with his knowledge and approval that air-raid wardens are asking 2289W householders for particulars of the names, ages, occupations, war service and special qualifications of members of their households and for information as to cooking facilities, fuel supplies, first-aid equipment, tools, bicycles, water supplies, fire appliances, accommodation and bedding, food supplies, typewriters and other matters; whether householders are obliged to give this information; and what is the purpose of these inquiries?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonThe sole purpose of these inquiries is to obtain information which will be of assistance in the preparation of a defence scheme for the area concerned and in the actual working of the scheme in the event of invasion. There are many tasks which, in the event of invasion, the citizen may be called upon to undertake and many ways in which he and the material resources at his disposal can make a contribution to the work of repelling the invader and maintaining services essential to the life of the community; and a record of the special capacities and resources of householders will assist in securing that the best use is made of the services offered by citizens if invasion comes. What precise particulars should be included in such a survey is a matter for local decision, but it is with my knowledge and approval that such surveys have been, and are being, made not only in London but throughout the country. This information is not requested in pursuance of any legal requirement, but I am confident that I can rely on the good will and co-operation of householders in rendering available information which will be used for the common benefit.