Major HENDERSONasked what rent is charged to the officer commanding the Eastern Defences when occupying Government House, Chatham, when that officer's rank is that of colonel or major-general; and what is the rateable value of such premises?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. H. J. Tennant)The rent deduction of a major-general commanding Coast Defences is £200 a year when in occupation of public quarters allotted to him and that of a colonel similarly situated is £110. As regards the last part of the question, I can give no information as the contribution in lieu of rates for the building is included in that for the military barracks, and is not separately identified.
Major HENDERSONAre we to understand that rent is to be paid according to an officer's abilities, and not according to the dwelling he occupies?
§ Mr. TENNANTNo, Sir; I do not think that is a deduction which can be drawn from my answer.