§ MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE (Bristol, E.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War what has been the cost of the range at Whitchurch, Gloucestershire; whether the range is now closed; and, if so, for what reason, and for how long it is likely to remain closed; and what arrangements are being made to permit the men of the depôt at Horfield, and the Militia and Volunteer Battalions to fire their annual course of musketry.
§ *MR. ARNOLD-FORSTERThe range cost £5,000. It is now closed, owing to some cottages in the rear being unsafe, as there is not sufficient danger area. It is not possible, however, to state at present whether it will have to be abandoned. The 4th Militia Battalion of the Gloucester Regiment will fire the annual course on Salisbury Plain. Arrangements will be made for the other troops using this range to fire their annual course, but the places have not yet been definitely selected.
§ MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSEasked if the cottages were there before the expenditure was incurred.
§ *MR. ARNOLD-FORSTERI must request notice of any further Question.