§ MR. BLACK (Banffshire)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the estimated cost of erecting buildings for the housing of troops in South Africa; and whether, in view of the fact that these buildings will form a permanent addition to the assets of the colonies where they are situated, he proposes that the colonies should pay the cost of erection; if not, upon what fund will the cost be placed, and does the cost appear in this year's estimate.
§ MR. BRODRICKThe expenditure on accommodation for the garrison in South Africa (mainly consisting of hutments) has up to 31st March last amounted to about £1,025,000, the necessary provision having been made in Army Estimates for the last three years. Such further expenditure as is 1632 required on accommodation of a permanent character will be provided in the Military Works Loan: the amount cannot at present be definitely stated. I am not in a position to make any statement at present as to the incidence of cost, as no decision has been arrived at as to the future garrison of South Africa.
§ MR. BUCHANAN (Perthshire, E.)When will the Military Works (Loans) Bill be introduced?
§ MR. BRODRICKA similar Question was put to the First Lord the other day and the right hon. Gentleman then said he was not in a position at present to make any statement.†