§ 31 and 32. Mr. Charles Smithasked the Secretary of State for War (1) how many married quarters at the latest convenient date were appropriated for purposes other than family accommodation; what these purposes were; and what steps are contemplated to make them available for their intended purpose; and
(2) how many married quarters at the latest convenient date were damaged and requiring repairs to make them habitable; what steps are being taken to deal with their repair; and by what date it is expected that they will be rendered habitable.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Shinwell)In the United Kingdom at 1st January, 757 married quarters were used for purposes other than family accommodation. The purposes for which these quarters have been misappropriated vary considerably, but the majority are to house A.T.S. for whom no other suitable accommodation exists. The quarters will be put to their proper use as alternative accommodation for the present occupants is found and as the married quarters are reconditioned to their original use. One thousand two hundred and fifty quarters required repairing. This has been given priority, but progress depends largely on the availability of labour and materials. It is not possible to give an accurate forecast of the date when this work will be completed, but it is hoped that nearly all repairs will be carried out during the next twelve months.
§ Mr. Godfrey NicholsonDo I understand from the reply that the right hon. Gentleman gives the equivalent of a pledge that nobody will be evacuated from married quarters until alternative accommodation has been found for them?
§ Mr. ShinwellI could not give any such pledge, but we do take every possible precaution.