HC Deb 14 February 1945 vol 408 c206
28. Mr. Kirby

asked the Secretary of State for Air for what purpose the privately owned stores, of whose location he has been informed, were requisitioned by his Department; what the stores are used for now; and whether it is intended to release them for trading purposes at an early date.

Sir A. Sinclair

These premises were requisitioned in 1942 for use as part of a W.A.A.F. reception centre. They now form part of a personnel despatch centre. I regret that I cannot hold out hope of their early release.

Mr. Kirby

Does my right hon. Friend realise that Lancashire workpeople are very war-weary and would like to take advantage of the amenities of this store and café when having their brief holiday in this seaside resort?

Sir A. Sinclair

I can only say that I should not wish to keep these premises a week longer than was absolutely necessary for the requirements of the Service. If my hon. Friend has any other proposals to make, with regard to alternative premises available in the vicinity, of course, I shall be very glad to consider them.

Mr. Kirby

Is it not a fact that large numbers of R.A.F. and W.A.A.F. have gone overseas, thus releasing more suitable accommodation than these stores?

Sir A. Sinclair

I can assure my hon. Friend that I have looked carefully into this since he put this Question on the Paper, and we require these premises in that vicinity.