§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why only one publication is available to the public about home defence; and if he will remedy this situation by issuing more positive information and guidance generally.
§ Mr. WhitelawMy current review of home defence arrangements includes the question of public information.
§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will institute an inquiry as to the adequacy of the Civil Defence Act 1948 and regulations there under, together with powers 375W conferred on principal councils under the Local Government Act 1972 in respect of major accidents and natural disasters.
§ Mr. WhitelawNo. The Civil Defence Act 1948 is drawn in wide terms and I am satisfied with the scope of the regulations made under the Act. I am also satisfied that the Local Government Act 1972 confers adequate powers on county and district councils with respect to major accidents and natural disasters.