§ 33. Mr. Wakefieldasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the indignation caused, in cases of which he has been informed, by his Department taking troops out of their billets and putting them under canvas; and what steps he is taking to re-billet these troops for the rest of the winter.
Sir J. GriģģEvery effort is made to avoid accommodating troops under canvas but as my hon. Friend is doubtless aware the pressure on existing accommodation is in general very severe and it is not always possible to avoid it. But I am glad to say that only about 1 per cent. of British troops are at present so accommodated. The cases referred to by my hon. Friend are being investigated.
§ Mr. WakefieldIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these troops have returned to this country from a hot climate, and that to put them under canvas in cold weather is very severe, whereas troops who have been put in billets ought to carry out their training under cold conditions?
Sir J. GriģģYes, Sir, I am aware of most of the facts about this, and the only thing I can say is, that to know all would, I think, be to pardon all.