58. Captain CROOKSHANKasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, what is the total number of Legation houses in the charge of his Department; how many were purchased in 1925 and how many will be purchased in 1926; and whether, in view of the need for public economy, he will endeavour to restrict to the utmost capital expenditure under this head?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Captain Douglas Hacking)Twenty-seven legation houses and 11 embassy houses are in the care of His Majesty's Office of Works. Two of the legation houses were acquired in 1925, and it is proposed to acquire a residence at Angora in 1926. The need for the restriction of capital expenditure to the utmost possible extent is fully realised. The Estimates for Diplomatic and Consular buildings for 1926 show a large reduction, as compared with previous years.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINMay I ask whether anything has been done to dispose of the very fine Embassy buildings at Constantinople?
§ Captain HACKINGThat item can be raised on Thursday in Debate.