§ Mr. Rose32, 33 and 34. asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) whether he will take steps to authorise local authorities, when so requested by householders, to dismantle brick air-raid shelters constructed during the Second World War, at the expense of the local authority or the Exchequer;
(2) what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government on retaining existing air-raid shelters which might afford worthwhile protection in the circumstances of a future war;
(3) whether he is aware that the brick air-raid shelters constructed by local authorities in the Blackley area during the Second World War would afford no protection in the circumstances of a future war; and if he will take steps to authorise reimbursement of expenses incurred by householders who have them dismantled.
§ Mr. George ThomasIn general, air-raid shelters which might provide worthwhile protection have been retained. But there is provision for their demolition at the public expense if they are structurally unsound and beyond repair, are a danger to health or stand in the way of development. And my right hon. Friend is prepared to consider whether, in an individual case, there are other good grounds for authorising removal.
If my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of the cases he has in mind, I shall be glad to consider them.