§ 39. Sir Reginald Clarryasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Monmouthshire Territorial Force Association have occupied for some years in the borough of Newport two drill halls and four houses upon which no rates or contribution in lieu of rates have been paid to the local authority; and, further, in order to meet the present expansion of the Territorial Army, additional property has recently been taken over by the association, comprising warehouse, garage, and five houses, involving a further direct loss to local rates resulting in an indirect discouragement to local enthusiasm for the Territorial Army, and whether he will consider making use of Regular Army property for the purposes of the Territorial Army?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThe facts are as stated. There is no suitable surplus War Department accommodation at Newport. It would be a pity if localities were to feel that it was a burden to make the small contribution involved in accommodating their own citizen soldiers.
§ Sir R. ClarryDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that something should be done to remedy the very unfortunate situation which applies throughout the whole country to some extent?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI am not prepared to admit that it is unfortunate. I think it is fortunate that Newport should have its Territorials.