§ Mr. SALTERasked what is the distance to be covered in each case by the proposed extension of the Aldershot electric lighting installation to the camps at Deepcut, Blackdown, and Ewshott; and whether, in view of the fact that the gas mains of the Aldershot Gas and Water Company are in close proximity to the camps named, he has considered the possibilities of utilising their system?
The HON. MEMBER further asked (1) what is the estimated cost per unit for the supply of electricity to the camps at Deepcut, Blackdown, and Ewshott; whether he has obtained any tender from the Aldershot Gas and Water Company for the supply of gas to these camps in lieu of electricity; and, if so, will he state the price per cubic foot for which the company were willing to supply it; and (2) whether, in view of the cost of the proposed extension of the Aldershot electric lighting installation to the camps at Deepcut, Black- 647W down, and Ewshott, a considerable saving might be effected both in first cost and current expenditure by utilising the system of the Aldershot Gas and Water Company, especially having regard to the fact that the use of gas for heating and cooking purposes would save the necessity of carting quantities of coal to these camps at great expense?
§ Mr. HALDANE:The distance to Deepcut is five and a half miles, and a further three-quarters of a mile to Blackdown; that to Ewshott is three and three-quarter miles. The question of using the gas supply from Aldershot has been considered, and it has been decided that it would be more economical to extend the War Department electric light installation, which will also provide a more satisfactory illuminant. The Aldershot Gas Company tendered, but their price is presumably confidential. The cost of the electric lighting is an estimate and cannot at present be disclosed.