§ 23. Captain CARR-GOMMasked the First Commissioner of Works how many applications for increased office accommodation are now awaiting the sanction of the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation; which Ministries are so applying; and, in view of the Armistice, will he say what policy the Committee are adopting with regard to these and all further applications?
§ The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS (Sir Alfred Mond)Seven; from the Admiralty, Ministry of Munitions, Ministry of Pensions, Ministry of Labour, Colonial Office, Board of Trade, and the Allied Maritime Council. The policy to be adopted in regard to outstanding and future demands for accommodation is now under submission to the War Cabinet, but in view of the considerable amount of additional space required in connection with schemes for demobilisation and the issue of pensions, it may be necessary for me to consider the acquisition of fresh premises, should the surrender in the immediate future of existing accommodation in the occupation of Government Departments not be sufficient to meet the demand. Such steps, however, will only be taken with the greatest reluctance and where no other course is possible.
§ Mr. WATTAre we to take it that demobilisation and peace are actually to bring about greater office accommodation on the part of the Government than in war-time?
§ Sir A. MONDMy hon. Friend must remember that we have not yet finished the War. We have only got an Armistice. Demobilisation requires a staff of its own, and it is possible that a larger amount of accommodation may be required than at present. I will do my best to make it as small as possible.
§ Captain CARR-GOMMWill there be any saving in the London area owing to the decentralisation of Departments?
§ Sir A. MONDNo.