HC Deb 17 February 1919 vol 112 cc545-6
42. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Minister of Supply whether any steps are being taken, in conjunction with the Young Men's Christian Association or otherwise, to supply disused Army hats as social centres in those districts and villages where there is at present no social institute?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Up to the present very few huts have been reported as available for disposal. I shall be glad to consider favourably any offer made by the Young Men's Christian Association, or any other public body, for the purchase of huts for the purpose indicated in the question.

Colonel C. LOWTHER

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the handing over of the huts to the Association for Disabled Soldiers?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Provided the interests of the Exchequer are properly safe guarded, I shall be prepared to consider favourably any proposal of that kind.

Mr. G. TERRELL

Will the hon. Gentleman cause a public announcement to be made when these huts become available?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Certainly. It will all be done after full advertisement.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Can my hon. Friend say that none of these huts will be given away for less than their full value for public purposes such as this?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I hope they will not be given away for less than, their full market value.

An HON. MEMBER

Is the hon. Member prepared to allocate any of these huts to Ireland?

Mr. KELLAWAY

If they will pay for them at their full value.