§ 22. Sir J. Lucasasked the Secretary of State for War when it is intended to restore the Royal Garrison Church, Domus Dei A.D. 1200, at Portsmouth which was bombed in 1941.
§ Mr. SoamesThe Royal Garrison Church has had a long association with the Army and it would be the wish of many serving and retired soldiers that it should be restored. But only a small number of troops will be stationed in Portsmouth in future and I have concluded with regret that the heavy cost of rebuilding a garrison church for so few people could not be justified. We shall continue for as long as possible the arrangement whereby an Army chaplain conducts services in the surviving chancel of the building.
§ Sir J. LucasIs my right hon. Friend aware that only last week a burial service was held in this roofless church? Could not a claim be made under war damage at least for the church to be re-roofed, even if it is not restored?
§ Mr. SoamesNo, Sir. As this church stands on Crown land, it has no claim, for war damage.