§ Mr. WATTasked whether the Woolwich torpedo factory workers, who are to be transferred to Greenock, are raising objections to the housing accommodation procurable in Greenock; whether his Department has approached the landowners there with a view to the purchase of land on which to erect suitable houses; if so, will he say what price is being asked for such land; and whether such price renders it possible to erect suitable houses for the workers at a reasonable price?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, but it is hoped that the objections will shortly be overcome by the erection of cottages by private enterprise. The reply 207 to the second part of the question is in the negative, as the Admiralty have never contemplated buying land for dwelling houses in Gourock.
§ Mr. WATTCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the price which is being asked for this land for housing these workers is the same price as was paid by his Department for the land for the torpedo factory which was equal to 2,300 years' purchase?