HC Deb 05 June 1919 vol 116 cc2221-2
46. Mr. ARNOLD

asked the Prime Minister whether he will grant a Return of the number and location of hotels, private houses, commercial offices, and temporary buildings at present occupied by Government Departments in London; and also of the number of rooms and of the staff employed in each building, respectively?

Sir A. MOND

In view of the fact that hotels and other buildings are being rapidly evacuated, and the information required therefore being changed constantly, no practical purpose will be served by the preparation of the Return asked for by the hon. Member, and which would involve considerable time and labour to compile.

Mr. ARNOLD

Is not the real reason for not granting this Return that the Government are afraid of letting the people know the truth?

Sir A. MOND

Not at all. The hon. Member must realise, in view of so many changes, that by the time such a Return as he asks for could be furnished it would be absolutely useless.

Mr. ARNOLD

Is it not a fact that this Return asks for other particulars besides hotels?