§ Mr. James Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the purpose of the recent modernisation of the barracks at Ballater, Aberdeenshire; and if he will adapt the barracks for a long-term rôle as an Army centre for skiing and mountaineering training.
§ Mr. BoydenThe decision to reprovide the accommodation at Victoria Barracks, Ballater, was taken because the huts had reached the end of their economic life. The project was completed in July, 1968, at a cost of £42,000, and the old huts were demolished.
The barracks accommodate the Royal Guard when the Sovereign is in residence at Balmoral Castle. From late October
Force (Men and Women) 31st December, 1965 31st December, 1966 31st March, 1969 West Yorkshire … … * Establishment 3,673 4,602 4,663 Strength 3,431 3,439 3,528 Lancashire … … … Establishment 3,900 4,240 4,246 Strength 3,599 3,596 3,732 South Wales … … … †Establishment 2,268 2,490 2,581 Strength 2,131 2,294 2,409 * Comprises: Yorkshire, W. Riding, Barnsley, Dewsbury, Doncaster. Halifax, Huddersfield, Wakefield (amalgamated 1st October, 1968). †Comprises: Glamorgan. Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Swansea (to amalgamate 1st June, 1969).