§ 24. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Secretary of State for War the cost of the new British Army of the Rhine headquarters; and for what purpose it is being constructed.
§ Mr. HeadThe cost of this new headquarters is likely to be about 130 million deutschmarks, which is now being met from German occupation costs. The move of this headquarters is being carried out for strategic reasons.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonDoes the answer mean that the cost of this grandiose scheme will fall upon the German Government and not upon British funds? As the amount is equivalent to £12,500,000, 220 is it not fantastic that at this time so much money should be spent on headquarters for B.A.O.R.? Is B.A.O.R. going on for ever?
§ Mr. HeadAs to the first part of the supplementary question, that is dependent upon a certain number of factors into which I cannot go now. As to the necessity for the move of the headquarters, the hon. and gallant Gentleman will appreciate that as it is situated at present it is the reverse of the Duke of Plaza-Toro, being in front of instead of behind the foremost line of defence.
§ Mr. WiggHow many batmen and officers' servants will be required to maintain this grandiose headquarters?
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.