§ Mr. Brookeasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that men were at work on Sunday morning, 6th June, demolishing the remains of derelict houses in Westminster which had been standing empty for more than two years since damage by enemy action; and whether there was any reason of urgency that necessitated Sunday work on this job?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonHitherto a small reserve of men has been kept available in London on Sunday mornings in case they are required for urgent work on demolition or clearance following an air raid, and the work referred to in the Question was carried out by this reserve. It was not of special urgency but as no other work of an urgent character was available it was thought better to keep the men employed rather than to pay them for doing nothing. The arrangements described have recently been under review by the London Regional Commissioners, and it has been decided to substitute alternative arrangements, which will come into force at an early date, to ensure that a supply of men is made available only if there is reason to think that it will be required for urgent work.