§ 34. Mr. Lipsonasked the First Commissioner of Works whether he will arrange for hutments to be erected with all despatch for the use of Government Departments that may have to be evacuated from London, to enable schools and colleges requisitioned for this purpose to revert to their normal occupiers?
§ The First Commissioner of Works (Mr. Ramsbotham)I am most anxious to provide alternative accommodation to enable schools and colleges requisitioned to be released, but many factors, including the question of the utilisation of the resources of the building industry to the best advantage, have to be considered in relation to Service and other requirements.
§ Mr. LipsonDoes my right hon. Friend realise that his anxiety will hardly meet the difficulty by itself, and that a great deal of harm is being done to education by this action, and that the suggestion in the question will enable this to be put right? Will he consider whether something can be done?
§ Mr. RamsbothamI deeply regret that so much hardship and inconvenience— which I recognise—have been caused. As soon as I can get the material, I assure my hon. Friend that I will lose no time in making a start for the provision of alternative accommodation.
§ Mr. LipsonCould my right hon. Friend give an assurance that he is taking steps to secure that alternative accommodation?
§ Mr. RamsbothamYes, that is the assurance I gave.
Viscountess AstorWill my right hon. Friend let the Government know that people feel that there is not co-ordination enough between the different Departments, and that otherwise this would not happen?