HC Deb 18 July 1922 vol 156 c1874
5. Sir ARTHUR FELL

asked the Secretary of State for War how many acres of land in the centre of Wimbledon Common are still in the occupation of the military authorities, and how many soldiers are now quartered there?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

The answer to the first part of the question is 30 acres. There is at present one battalion of Foot Guards quartered at the camp, with a strength of 26 officers and 610 other ranks. I understand that the battalion is now undergoing its annual course of musketry training at Pirbright.

Sir A. FELL

Is it suggested there are 600 men at present on Wimbledon Common?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

If the hon. Member listened to the answer I stated they are quartered there, but at the present moment they are undergoing the annual course of musketry training.

Sir A. FELL

In the circumstances—I believe there are only about 20 men on Wimbledon Common—will it shortly be restored to public use?

Lieut.-Colonel STANLEY

I cannot say with certainty.