HC Deb 05 November 1919 vol 120 cc1501-2
88. Major GLYN

asked the Secretary of State for War how many camps have been handed over to the Ministry of Munitions for disposal since the. Armistice; how many are to be handed over; what steps are being taken meantime to protect the material and property; how many officers and other ranks are engaged upon this duty; and at what approximate cost?

Mr. FORSTER

I regret that the information required to enable me to answer this question is not readily available, and to obtain it would entail a great amount of clerical labour. In view of this and of the reductions which are being made in the staff of the Department, I am afraid I cannot undertake to have the statement prepared. I might, however, add that all temporary hutted camps, with one or two exceptions, will ultimately be handed over for disposal.

Major GLYN

Are not the War Office aware of the number of camps they have handed over for sale through the Ministry of Munitions without much clerical labour?

Mr. FORSTER

If my hon. and gallant Friend will be content with any information I can give him without any great research, I shall be glad to do what I can.

Mr. BILLING

If he subtracts one from the other, surely he has got the answer?