§ 14. Mr. CRITTALLasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that there are six cottages at Tollesbury, four cottages at Burnham-on-Crouch, and six cottages at Bradwell-on-Sea, built in connection with the coastguard, which have been vacant for 12 months past; and whether, in view of the acute shortage of houses in these places, he will arrange for them to be let to private individuals?
§ The CIVIL LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. F. Hodges)The number of empty houses at the stations referred to is correctly stated, but they have not all been empty for 12 months, the last house at Bradwell having been vacated as recently as last month. Negotiations are in progress for surrendering the houses at Tollesbury, which are only held on lease, to the lessor. The other properties will shortly be offered for sale by public auction, due notice of which will be given in the Press, and it is not proposed in the meantime to let any of the houses.
§ Captain TERRELLIs it a fact that the four cottages at Burnham-on-Crouch have been vacant for 12 months?
§ Mr. HODGESNo, Sir; I think that applies to only three of them.