COMPULSORY FIRE WATCHING

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXIII, 2 January 1941, Page 6

COMPULSORY FIRE WATCHING

MINISTER'S ANNOUNCEMENT [British Official Wireless] (Received 2nd January, 10.57 a.m.) RUGBY, Ist January. In an appeal for the formation of neighbours’ parties of fire watchers to guard business premises, factories and homes against fire caused by incendiaries dropped by enemy aircraft, Mr Herbert Morrison (Minister of Home Security) emphasised the need for immediate action. “Not a single house or business must be left uncared for,” the Minister stated. “The immediate introduction of compulsory fire watching is contemplated and in connection with this and other civil defence services on this subject,” Mr Morrison said, “I am able to announce that this principle of compulsion to-day has been affirmed by the Government. Details are now being worked out and will be promulgated as soon as possible.” This decision meets with the general approval of the press. The “Daily Mail” applauds the speed and vigour with which Mr Morrison has acted within 48 hours of the disaster to the city of London. “The Times,” which regards the decision as wise but belated, adds: “The difficulties which may have delayed it are admittedly considerable, but there is a clear and urgent duty upon firms and private persons alike to do what Mr Morrison asks of them and to form without an hour’s delay associations between neighbours for the supply of watchers and of the very simple materials required to extinguish a firebomb before it can begin its destructive work.”