13. Mr. Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for War on what grounds it has been decided to erect a Navy, Army and Air Force Institute on the site in Streatham he has been notified of, in direct competition with the Forces Club established by the public at Streatham, which supplies the troops at cost prices and makes no profit; and whether he is satisfied that the use of labour and materials for this purpose is justifiable?
§ Sir J. GriggAs the hon. Member is aware, this case has been very carefully considered by my Department. The N.A.A.F.I, to which his Question refers is being built in accordance with the accepted policy in these cases to meet the very real needs of the personnel on the site, in particular of the Home Guards. They are there in considerable numbers either for operational duties or on training and it is considered they should not leave the site in the course of their period of duty. I am therefore satisfied that this institute must be built. I am glad of this opportunity to say how much the Streatham Forces Club is appreciated and I hope the troops will continue to benefit from its amenities.
Mr. RobertsonWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for the tone of his reply, may I ask whether he is aware that this question of having a N.A.A.F.I. was thoroughly explored, gone into, and decided against by the War Office before this Community Forces Club was opened; and is he not further aware that the canteen of the Forces Club is within three minutes' walking distance of the site, that there is a direct private military line and that the site can be manned in a moment or two?
§ Sir J. GriggIt is clear to me, whether they are troops or Home Guard who are actually on the site on operational duties, that during their period of duty they must not leave the site.
Mr. RobertsonIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.