HC Deb 29 April 1947 vol 436 c1715
41. Major Legge-Bourke

asked the Secretary of State for War where the families evacuated from Palestine are now accommodated; what type of accommodation this is; and what steps are being taken to provide permanent accommodation.

Mr. Bellenger

The military families evacuated from Palestine were given the option of returning to the United Kingdom. Of those who returned, 16 Regular other ranks' families who had no home to go to in the United Kingdom have been allotted married soldiers' quarters at Aldershot. Those who did not wish to return to this country are at present accommodated in camps in the Canal Area. The living accommodation consists of tents with hutted ancillary buildings. As the families will not be staying permanently in the Canal Area, it is not necessary to provide permanent accommodation. Plans are, however, in hand to accommodate them in huts before the hot weather.

Major Legge-Bourke

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether all those who were temporarily accommodated in Folkestone have now left?

Mr. Bellenger

No, Sir, I cannot give that information in replying to this Question.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that those who were accommodated at Folkestone were gravely dissatisfied with the future prospects of getting accommodation in this country, and that, in particular, they were worried about the education of their children?

Mr. Bellenger

Yes, Sir, I know there are considerable difficulties, but in our Department we have done everything possible to help these people.