HC Deb 03 August 1944 vol 402 cc1617-8W
Captain Cunningham-Reid

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will place the services of the Home Guard at the disposal of the Civil Defence authorities for the purpose of preventing looting.

Mr. A. Henderson

My right hon. Friend is most anxious that members of the Home Guard should do all they can, consistent with their military duties, to help to prevent looting. Arrangements already exist whereby the Home Guard renders assistance to the police or the Civil Defence Services. The exact form of assistance rendered is a matter for arrangement between the local heads of the respective services, and I have every reason to believe that substantial assistance is being given.

Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Secretary of State for War if he intends, in view of the altered military situation, to relax the duties imposed on members of the Home Guard, especally those who work long hours in industry.

Sir J. Grigg

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave the hon. Member for West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) on 1st August.