asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware of the recent thefts of explosives from factories and other places in this country; and will he take steps to safeguard all stores of explosives so as to eliminate the danger of their use by unauthorised persons?

My right hon. Friend agrees with the hon. Member as to the importance of this point. There are legal requirements as to safeguarding explosive stores against theft and it is desirable that all owners of such stores should take full precautions. There has been recent consultation with the police on the subject and steps have been taken to ensure that special attention is given to this matter.

Can the Minister state the number of known cases of theft recently in this country from stores of explosives?

No, Sir, not without notice.

Is there no check by the Home Office or any other Government Department over the sale of materials which may form the basis of explosives?

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question on the Paper.

May I press my question as to whether steps have already been taken to safeguard these stores?

Yes, Sir, I meant to make it clear in my answer that such steps had been taken, in consultation with the police.