§ 24. Mr. Niall Macphersonasked the Secretary of State for War why none of the improvements planned in the living quarters at Halheaths Camp, Lockerbie, have yet been started; and whether he will now give instructions that improvements be undertaken forthwith, so as to make the camp suitable for occupation this coming winter.
§ Mr. ShinwellThis camp is requisitioned property and I do not propose to retain it. The unit now occupying it will be moved early in the new year. Every endeavour will be made to ensure that the camp is kept as comfortable as possible until the unit moves, but extensive improvements are not justified in the circumstances.
§ Mr. MacphersonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that during last winter one group of huts was over 300 yards from the nearest latrines, and will he make certain, if this camp is to be occupied during the coming winter, that it is fit for occupation?
§ Mr. ShinwellThe hon. Gentleman's statement appears to be consistent with the facts, and I am not prepared to doubt what he has said. As I have said, we are clearing out of here as fast as we can, and, therefore, it does not seem desirable that we should expend much money on improvements.
§ Mr. MacphersonWill the right hon. Gentleman at least expend the £2,000 already authorised by Scottish Command?