§ 20. Mr. SNELLasked the 'Secretary of State for War if he is aware that two years ago the pathway leading across the barrack field from New Road to the south side of the front parade on Woolwich Common was closed to the public on the ground that this would enable two additional football and cricket grounds to be provided for the use of the soldiers stationed in the Woolwich garrison; that a large portion of the available space is now being prepared as a polo ground, which will prevent its use as cricket pitches for soldiers; and that there is resentment throughout the garrison at the proposal to allot a large slice of the restricted space available for recreation to the few officers who desire to play polo; and will he inquire whether the existing conditions can be maintained?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI am aware that the footpath was closed in connection with the laying out of new football grounds and cricket pitches for the garrison. I am informed that permission for polo to be played on the barrack field has only been given under conditions which ensure that the recreational facilities for all ranks are fully maintained. The use of only one cricket pitch has had to be discontinued owing to the polo, and this has been reprovided close at hand at the expense of the Polo Club. I am not aware that there is resentment throughout the garrison against these arrangements.