Fire Spotters.

Oral Answers to Questions — Civil Defence. – in the House of Commons at on 22 January 1941.

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Photo of Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore , Ayr District of Burghs

asked the Home Secretary when he proposes to make the establishment of fire spotters compulsory, both for business premises and private dwellings?

Photo of Mr William Mabane Mr William Mabane , Huddersfield

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the Fire Prevention (Business Premises) Order and the Civil Defence Duties (Compulsory Enrolment) Order made on 18th January, which fulfil the purpose he has in mind.

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore , Ayr District of Burghs

In view of the doubt in the public mind as to when, where and under what circumstances these Orders will be applied, and also in view of the large number of empty houses to which they apparently cannot be applied, will the hon. Gentleman or the Government not consider taking over the whole administration of the Orders instead of leaving the matter in the present position?

Photo of Mr William Mabane Mr William Mabane , Huddersfield

The Orders will remove all doubt from the hon. and gallant Gentleman's mind.

Photo of Dr Leslie Haden-Guest Dr Leslie Haden-Guest , Islington North

Does the Order place any duty on landlords, especially the large ground landlords in London, who may have a great deal of empty property on their hands?

Photo of Mr William Mabane Mr William Mabane , Huddersfield

The duty is on the occupiers.

Photo of Mr Oliver Simmonds Mr Oliver Simmonds , Birmingham Duddeston

Will the hon. Gentleman publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT the areas to which the Orders refer?

Photo of Mr William Mabane Mr William Mabane , Huddersfield

I will consider that suggestion.