§ 19. Mr. Mikardoasked the Secretary of State for War how many officers, noncommissioned officers and other ranks are at present stationed in Brock Barracks, Reading; and how many baths are available for each of these groups.
§ Mr. BellengerEighteen officers, 36 warrant officers and sergeants, and 518 other ranks. Two baths and one shower are available for the officers, one bath and one shower for the warrant officers and sergeants, and three baths and 25 showers for the other ranks. A number of other showers are temporarily not in use in order to save fuel.
§ Mr. MikardoCan my right hon. Friend say why there is this disparity in the provision of an essential service According to rank?
§ Mr. BellengerI do not think there is much disparity. I hope Members of Parliament get more baths than officers and other ranks who are limited to the exigencies of the situation.
§ Mr. MikardoHow does my right hon. Friend say there is no disparity in view of the fact that there is one bath per six officers and one bath per 19 other ranks?
§ Mr. BellengerProbably my hon. Friend has overlooked the fact that there are 25 showers also.