HC Deb 27 May 1919 vol 116 cc1004-5
9. Lieut.-Colonel BURGOYNE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the Army still retains possession of several garages belonging to the London General Omnibus Company, although that company has urgently demanded their return in order to establish further services which are much needed; and how soon he can give up possession?

Mr. FORSTER

With my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, I will circulate a full reply to his question in the OFFICIAL REPORT, as it is rather too long to read out.

The following is the reply indicated:

On the 11th November, 1918, eleven garages of the London General Omnibus Company were held by the War Department. Four of these have been surrendered by that Department, but two of these have since been acquired by the Ministry of Munitions. Particulars as regards the remaining seven are as follows:

  1. 1. Wickham Lane, Plumstead, occupied by 274 Mechanical Transport Company. Arrangements are being made to move this Company into Royal Arsenal, and vacate the London General Omnibus Company's premises.
  2. 2. Warner Road, Camberwell, occupied by a Mechanical Transport Repair Shop, which will, it is anticipated, be clear in three weeks from 22nd May, 1919.
  3. 3. Kingsley Road, Hounslow, occupied by a Mechanical Transport School, will be vacated within three weeks.
  4. 4. Whitbread Avenue, Bedford, occupied by 373 Mechanical Transport Company. This Company is being transferred else where.
  5. 5. Greyhound Road, Fulham, used as store for deceased Australian Officers' effects. To evacuate it would retard Australian repatriation, and the fittings of this store are most elaborate.
  6. 6. Revesby Road, Walworth, used as store of Canadian Forces. Every effort will be made to vacate at an early date.
  7. 7. Bromley Road, Catford, full of machinery of the Canadian Forestry Department, this machinery is being taken over by Board of Trade, who are aware of the importance of vacating the premises.

The branch of the War Office concerned is in frequent communication with the London General Omnibus Company as regards all these premises, and will keep that company informed of progress made.