HC Deb 13 August 1913 vol 56 cc2487-8
23. Mr. JAMES HOGGE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can now give the extent of the Dreghorn estate purchased by the War Office, and the price paid for the same?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Tennant)

I have nothing at present to add to the reply given to a question on this subject put by my hon. Friend on the 2nd July.

Mr. HOGGE

Is it not the fact that the estate has been purchased?

Mr.TENNANT

Yes, Sir.

Mr. HOGGE

Why is it that the House of Commons cannot get the figure which has been paid for it?

Mr. TENNANT

Because it is not considered desirable or in the public interest to publish it.

Mr. HOGGE

What are the public-interests that will be injured by giving the figures?

Mr. TENNANT

It may be deemed desirable to purchase other land in the immediate vicinity at a near date.

Mr. WATT

Does the War Office know the extent of the purchase?

Mr. MORTON

Would it not be advisable for the hon. Gentleman to give the House full particulars? We have a right to them, as we have to pay for the estate.

Mr. TENNANT

There is no scandal attaching to this question. I have asked my hon. Friends to accept my assurance that the purchase has been carried out in a very businesslike manner.