asked the Secretary of State for India whether he is satisfied that the Civil Defence in India, especially the Home Guard section, is organised and equipped in a manner likely to be effective in case of need?

I would refer the hon. Member to the replies which I gave yesterday to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Newcastle-under-Lyme (Mr. Wedgwood) and the hon. Member for South Ayrshire (Mr. Sloan) on the subject of Home Guard and Civil Defence preparations in India. I have no doubt that all practicable measures are being taken to strengthen the existing services.