§ 27. Mr. HUGH MORRISONasked the Secretary of State for War if he will state what is the present annual cost of the experimental ground at Porton; whether any decision has been arrived at as to its future; and whether, in view of the importance of economy, he will have it closed down?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe annual cost of the rent of the experimental ground at Porton is approximately £2,750. It has been decided to retain the land, as it is the only site in the country suitable for carrying out field experiments in chemical warfare. Until the attitude of the League of Nations to chemical warfare is defined, it is essential to have an experimental ground for the research necessary to provide our soldiers with adequate protection against gas.