HC Deb 29 April 1935 vol 301 cc32-3
41. Mr. THORNE (for Mr. HICKS)

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he can now state whether it is proposed to remove the Royal Arsenal or some part of the establishment from Woolwich?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Douglas Hacking)

I am afraid that I cannot add to the answer which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for the Hallam Division of Sheffield (Mr. L. Smith) on the 16th instant. The question is still under active discussion, but will obviously take some time to decide.

Mr. THORNE

In view of the fact that this matter has been under consideration for a very long time, and that there is no doubt that it is disturbing the minds of the people at Woolwich, would it not be as well to come to a decision as quickly as possible?

Mr. HACKING

It might be a dangerous thing to decide a matter of such importance as this in any hasty way. As I have told the House on more than one occasion, plenty of notice will be given after a decision is arrived at before any definite work is commenced.

Mr. THORNE

Is there any idea of shifting any part of Woolwich at all?