§ Major Digbyasked the Secretary of State for War how many requisitioned premises are held by his Department in Dorchester, Bridport, Beaminster and surrounding districts; and how many of these premises are now in use by troops.
§ Mr. LawsonI am not sure what area the hon. and gallant Member has in mind,2056W but in the three towns themselves the figures are three, five and one respectively. Apart from the property in Beaminster, which is being derequisitioned shortly, all are now in use by the Army.
§ Sir H. Webbeasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air how many square feet of office space at the address in the West-End of London, of which he has been informed, are under requisition; by what departments they are occupied; and what was the average number of persons employed there for each of the last three months.
§ Mr. LawsonI have been asked to reply. The building in question contains approximately 13, 300 square feet of office space and is in full use by my Department. The average number of persons using this office accommodation during the last three months is 140.
§ Sir R. Glynasked the Secretary of State for War the date on which North Moreton House, Didcot, Berkshire, was released from requisition by his Department; if the building was ordered to be handed back to the owners on that date; whether he is aware that the caretaker employed by his Department not only refuses to leave the house but has brought his relatives to live there, thus preventing the owner gaining possession; and what action has been taken by his Department to remedy this and to see that the building is surrendered to the owner in accordance with the official notice of release.
§ Mr. LawsonThis house is still retained on requisition pending final action regarding the caretaker. I am aware of the circumstances and will give the hon. Member further details shortly.