§ 68. Major Beamishasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware of the grave shortage of housing accommodation in Salt-dean; that this shortage has been aggravated by the fact that the Ocean Hotel is still being used by the National Fire Service; if he will say for what purpose this accommodation is still being held by his Department; and when it is likely to be released.
§ Mr. EdeThe Ocean Hotel has been used since 1941 as the National Fire Service College for the higher training of members of the Service, and it will be needed for this purpose until permanent premises, which have been acquired at Wotton, Surrey, can be made ready for occupation. I doubt whether the release of the hotel, even if it were practicable, would make any effective contribution toward solving the local housing problem.
§ Major BeamishWhen will these premises be available for accommodation?
§ Captain CrookshankTo what sort of training is the right hon. Gentleman referring?
§ Mr. EdeIt is general training for the various grades in the Fire Service. Its advanced or elementary nature depends on the course being given at the particular time.
§ Captain CrookshankBut we did get along without it before the war?
§ Mr. EdeNo, Sir. It was the practice then for local fire authorities to provide such courses. This is being done under the Fire Services Act as a result of the experiences gained during the war.