(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in order to meet the imminent danger of enemy parachute landings in this country and avoid displacing regular troops, he will consider the immediate formation of a voluntary corps composed of older, responsible men to be armed with rifles and Bren guns and trained for instant action in their own localities, in case of raids?

This matter has been receiving urgent attention in the light of recent events, and I hope to make an announcement on the subject at a very early date.

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that the public demand for the step suggested is both widespread and insistent, and that a large number of older men not now engaged in national service are eager to offer themselves for this work?

I think that that question is answered by what I have said already.

Will the right hon. Gentleman, in considering this matter, look into a precedent of the last war, when a voluntary force was organised something on these lines?

I am aware of the precedent.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, throughout the country, in the quieter areas, are large numbers of firemen who are ex-service men and who will be very willing—from what I have understood in the last four or five days—that various sections of them should be armed and organised for this purpose?

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that, in the British Legion throughout the country, is the nucleus of this force, already organised?

No.

Let us arm everybody. Let us all have arms?

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that his supporters in this House do not seem to think that he has the capacity for the job?