§ 39. Mr. WATTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the Lord Lieutenant of the county recently reported to the War Office that the Scotstoun depôt, Glasgow, where over 500 men are in barracks, was unhealthy; whether this statement was inquired into without delay by the War Office; and whether the facts were found to controvert the original report sent to the Department?
§ Mr. TENNANTYes, Sir; a representation from a private individual with regard to the depôt referred to by the hon. Member was forwarded by the Lord Provost of Glasgow to the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Scottish Command, but on the matter being investigated the report proved to be based on hearsay evidence, and to be quite unfounded.
§ 40. Mr. WATTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether estimates have been taken for the erection of a wooden recreation or dining room at Scotstoun depôt, Glasgow; if so, at what date; were these estimates sent to the head office in Edinburgh: if so, at what date; has anything been done in the meantime to put up suitable shelter for the men during their recreation or have they to occupy a canvas tent; and will he say whether the wooden erection is to be proceeded with or not?
§ Mr. TENNANTI am informed that a wooden dining hut is not necessary, as the men dine in existing buildings. Marquees are used for recreation tents, and building for this purpose is not contemplated owing to the early approach of the camping season.
§ Mr. WATTIs it not the case that estimates were taken for a wooden erection and that they have been under consideration at the Edinburgh office for some months?
§ Mr. TENNANTI am not able to say whether or not that was so, but whether or not it was so, a decision has been arrived at that no building shall take place.