§ MR. WALTER REA (Scarborough)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether the Burniston Road barracks at Scarborough which, since the removal of the Royal Garrison Artillery Depôt, have almost ceased to be occupied, are well above the average in suitability, owing not only to their modern construction and healthy situation but to the considerable amount of land adjoining which 82 has been purchased and placed at their disposal by the Corporation of Scarborough; and whether, having regard to those facts and in view of the loss to the State involved in keeping the buildings empty, he will endeavour to devise a plan by which they may be utilised for some special or other purpose which will entail their regular occupation.
§ MR. HALDANEUnder present arrangements it has not been found practicable so far to quarter in Scarborough barracks more than a very small body of men. I am well aware of the advantages of the barracks, and I can assure my hon. friend that the first opportunity will be taken of utilising them, providing that such occupation is consistent with the general scheme of distribution, and the necessity for economy.