HC Deb 15 June 1948 vol 452 cc242-3
43. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for War for what purposes the War Office used the flat at 19, Rugby Mansions, Bishop Kings Road, Kensington; what were the nature of the duties of Mrs. Wiggins there; and if she is still in the employment of the War Office.

Mr. Shinwell

I understand that this fiat was used recently for the temporary accommodation of Colonel Tasoev while he was here as a refugee. Mrs. Wiggins was employed as a housekeeper. She is still employed.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Can the Minister say whether the statements in the Press on 7th June are accurate? They were to the effect that this six-roomed flat was let to the Military Intelligence Department of the War Office by a judge, and that the rent was paid to the judge. Can the right hon. Gentleman say why these premises were vacated so suddenly?

Mr. Shinwell

I am afraid I have not got any further information on this matter, but I understand that my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary replied to a question on this point.

Mr. Bramall

As my right hon. Friend said that Mrs. Wiggins is still employed as a housekeeper, can he say whose house she is keeping at the moment?

Mr. Shinwell

I have just replied to that question—that Mrs. Wiggins was employed as housekeeper and she is still employed.

Mr. Pritt

Can my right hon. Friend say how many other foreign political or similar refugees were accommodated in that flat?

Mr. Shinwell

If my hon. and learned Friend puts a question down, I will try to furnish the answer.

Mr. Gallacher

Can the right hon. Gentleman say where Mrs. Wiggins is now?