HC Deb 01 November 1911 vol 30 cc848-9
Mr. DOUGLAS HALL

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to the complaints with regard to the sanitary condition of certain, parts of Osborne College; and whether he will consider the advisability of rebuilding the portions of the college which are unhealthy?

Lord CHARLES BERESFORD

asked whether the recurring outbreaks of illness at Osborne College show that the college is unhealthy; and whether there is any intention of rebuilding or altering it in order to make more healthy habitations, for the cadets?

Mr. LAMBERT

The question of replacing the temporary buildings now used by buildings of a more permanent nature is at the present time engaging the attention of the Admiralty. But I cannot admit the suggestion that the existing buildings are injurious to the health of the cadets.

Lord C. BERESFORD

Is it not a fact there have been very serious epidemics at Osborne on many occasions?

Mr. G. LAMBERT

Yes, there have been epidemics, but they have been brought in from outside; and, as the Noble Lord knows, boys are brought into Osborne about the age of thirteen, when they are peculiarly subject to these epidemics, mumps, measles, and such-like.

Lord C. BERESFORD

Has it not been officially reported by the officers at Osborne College that the college is unhealthy?

Mr. LAMBERT

No, I have not heard of it.

Mr. DOUGLAS HALL

Is it not a fact that, when pulling down some buildings, they found the walls stuffed with two inches of damp sawdust, and that in other parts you can put an umbrella through them?

Mr. LAMBERT

The whole of these repairs have been undertaken and carried out during the recent holidays.