Civil Defence "Standing Down Order" 17 April 1945 and Farewell Parade and Speech - 10 June 1945

With the Allies advancing further into Germany in the Spring of 1945 the war in Europe was rapidly coming to an end. The government now no longer saw any need for the Civil Defence General Services and on 17 April 1945 a memorandum by Herbert Morrison, Home Secretary and Minister for Home Security, was circulated that started the standing down of all CD services across the country.

All part-time members were to be released immediately from service and full-time members were given two months notice. The Ministry of Labour and National Service would then assist in finding these people employment.

On 2 May 1945 the powers of the Regional Commissioners were revoked. Throughout the country towns and cities held farewell parades for Civil Defence personnel. The final farewell parade, before His Majesty the King, took place at Hyde Park on 10 June 1945. Below is the speech he gave.

War Cabinet Memorandum of the Standing Stand of the Civil Defence Services.

Civil Defence Farewell Parade and Speech - 10 June 1945.