§ 32. Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTasked the Secretary of State for War at how many military stations in the United Kingdom are allotments or garden plots provided by the War Office for cultivation by unmarried non-commissioned officers and privates in the Regular Army; in how many cases is instruction in gardening or expert advice given to soldiers so occupied; and whether, in view of the value of such knowledge and experience to soldiers on leaving the service in securing for them fresh occupation or employment, and in enabling them to keep their families from a state of penury, he will take steps to further promote such allotments instruction and advice?
§ Colonel SEELYAlloments of garden grounds are granted free to the troops at all stations where suitable War Department land is available, but the detailed information required can only be obtained by calling for returns from the stations. In the last five years 1,015 men were instructed in gardening. Local instruction in gardening is encouraged in the various commands where opportunities present themselves.
§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTCan the right hon. Gentleman do anything to start such gardens in the neighbourhood of Bulford and Tidworth camps?
§ Colonel SEELYI will certainly consider the suggestion of the hon. Gentleman.