Mr. David Adams:

asked the Home Secretary what arrangements have been made to meet, and on whom will fall, the cost of reinstating after the war civic and private property, respectively, which has been altered for the requirements of air-raid defence?

It would be premature to attempt to state the exact arrangements, but in general it is contemplated that where works have been carried out by a local authority with the aid of grants under the Air-Raid Precautions Act, 1937, the necessary restoration would be carried out by the local authority on the same terms.

Mr. Adams:

In view of the fact that the transfer and sale of both civic and private property is taking place, should there not be a decision in this matter?

I think I have given a clear indication on the general policy to be adopted. The hon. Gentleman will no doubt know that provision is made in the Civil Defence Act in regard to restoration.

Mr. Adams:

Does that apply to private property also?

To private property which is designated, yes.