§ 3. Mr. Thorneasked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give any information in connection with the fire at Shoeburyness, Essex, on Monday, 10th July; what was the cause of the fire, and the amount of damage?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThe fire occurred in the sergeants' mess on the night of 9th/10th July, after the mess had been closed at 11.45 p.m It was discovered at 1 a.m. and was extinguished by 1.45 a.m. A Court of Inquiry found that there was no evidence to suggest any fault in the electric light wiring or incendiarism, and was of opinion that the fire originated in a small room used for keeping brooms and cleaning material, 156 and may have been caused by a match or cigarette end. The amount of the damage is estimated at £1,000.
§ Mr. ThorneHas not the right hon. Gentleman been able to find out who threw the match or cigarette as suggested?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaNo, Sir.