HC Deb 08 November 1949 vol 469 cc1050-1
38. Mr. Bramall

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will modify the scheme for assistance to officers and other ranks in renting accommodation where quarters are not available, so that the individual soldier may become the tenant instead of the War Office.

Mr. Shinwell

No, Sir. The scheme alluded to has been devised as a temporary measure for providing living accommodation in kind until sufficient married quarters become available.

Mr. Bramall

Would my right hon. Friend agree that the figures he gave recently of 70 officers and 10 other ranks having taken advantage of the scheme show that in fact it is not fulfilling the purpose for which it was designed? Is he aware that the fact that the War Department becomes a tenant is a great deterrent to landlords letting accommodation for occupation by military personnel?

Mr. Shinwell

The position has improved since I gave my last answer to my hon. Friend and the scheme is working out very well indeed.