MR. BAYLEY POTTERsaid, he would beg to ask the Secretary of State for War, Whether it is a fact that the use of gas as a means of lighting has been discontinued at the Perth Barracks, and, if so, whether he has any objection to state the reasons for the change; and whether he is aware that in consequence of the diminution of light resulting from the change many men who previously spent their spare time in reading and other amusements inside the barracks are now induced to frequent whisky-shops and other similar places which abound in Perth?
§ SIR JOHN PAKINGTONMy attention, Sir, was called to this subject by the hon. Member for Perth (Mr. Kinnaird), and I am sorry to say it is a fact that the use of gas as a means of lighting has been discontinued at the Perth Barracks on account of the very high price asked for gas by the gas company of that town. For a considerable time gas was supplied to the barracks at 4s. 2d. per 1,000 cubic feet, but the price now asked is 6s. 8d., in consequence, I am informed, of some rival companies having amalgamated. Now, the War Office has in no instance paid more than 5s. per 1,000 cubic feet, and that sum was offered to, but declined by, the company at Perth. We did not feel justified in paying the unusual price that was asked for supplying the soldiers with gas. With reference to the last part of the Question of the hon. Member, I am afraid that in the first instance some of the soldiers went out of the barracks for amusement in consequence of the change; but I have done all in my power to check that 330 evil. I have directed that there should be a good supply of fuel, and that in lieu of gas some other efficient mode of lighting the recreation-rooms should be resorted to.
MR. BRIGHTI wish to ask the right hon. Baronet whether the charge made to the barracks is the same as in other large buildings at Perth? I do not understand that the right hon. Gentleman would wish to insist on getting gas cheaper than other people. ["Order!"]
§ SIR JOHN PAKINGTONI really have not made it my business to ascertain what is the price charged for gas to other establishments in the town. I have rather regarded it as a question whether we should be justified in paying a higher price at Perth than in any other part of the Kingdom.