HC Deb 11 January 1916 vol 77 cc1425-6
9. Mr. J. P. FARRELL

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that two barracks exist at Longford capable of accommodating 1,000 men; whether it has been decided to send a draft of 100 men to occupy the same; whether, particularly in England, proper accommodation in barracks for men being trained is inadequate for present needs; and, if so, can he state why such accommodation as exists at Longford is not being more fully availed of?

Mr. TENNANT

In the first place, I would point out the accommodation at Longford is for 600 and not for 1,000 men. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on the 20th December; and with reference to the two last parts of the question, I would say that it would obviously be impracticable for military reasons to quarter part of a formation in the town of Longford and the remainder in England.

Mr. FARRELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the whole of the 5th Battalion of the 18th Royal Irish Regiment was trained there under Lord Granard?

Mr. TENNANT

The whole of the Battalion?

Mr. FARRELL

Yes.

Mr. TENNANT

I can only say the whole battalion would not have been 1,000 strong.

Mr. FARRELL

They were over 1,100 men.

Mr. TENNANT

I did not know that.

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