HC Deb 30 July 1946 vol 426 cc775-6
37. Dr. Segal

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the cultural and civic activities of Preston are being handicapped by the continued occupation of the Public Hall by the Army authorities; and whether, in view of the rapidity of the Government's demobilisation scheme, he will now give an approximate date for its derequisitioning.

Mr. Lawson

I realise the local inconvenience and I am trying to find other accommodation. The Record Office cannot be moved from Preston in the immediate future without hampering demobilisation. I estimate that November is about the earliest date on which the move can be arranged if, as I hope, we can find another suitable date.

Dr. Segal

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the reply is quite inexcusable and quite unhelpful? When there are so many empty Army camps available in the immediate vicinity, why cannot the Army authorities follow the excellent example set by the Royal Air Force and establish their demobilisation centres in the suburbs of our largest cities?

Mr. Lawson

In the present state of our demobilisation we cannot turn over immediately, but, as I have told the hon. Member, in November there will probably be some change in this matter.