HC Deb 17 April 1913 vol 51 cc2142-3W
Mr. RUPERT GWYNNE

asked the Secretary for War if, as officially stated, the Imperial Government farm at Middleburg was not run as a public undertaking, why was not a rent for the land and water supply charged to the board of management by the Army Council?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

As regards water supply, the farm bore its fair share of the cost of the dam constructed for the joint service of the troops and the farm. The circumstances of the case were not such as to call for any rent charge. The public as well as the troops obtained supplies of good quality at low prices, and the farming operations increased the value of the land, to the benefit of the public when it was ultimately sold on the closing of the military station.

Mr. RUPERT GWYNNE

asked the Secretary for War whether balance sheets of the Imperial Government farm at Middleburg were sent to the Army Council, dated 31st March, 1908, and 31st August, 1908, showing credit balances of £4,327 7s. 5d. and £3,541 11s. 8d., respectively; and, if so, will he explain why the credit balance on 31st December, 1908, had fallen to £69?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

Accounts were received as stated. The large credit balance attracted attention, and on examination was found to be mainly due to the inclusion in the balance sheet of large sums for permanent improvements and to liberal valuations of crops and stock. In the special circumstances of the case it was decided that credit should be taken only for such prices as could be realised at a sale for the benefit of the farm, and instructions were sent for the preparation of a revised balance sheet on this basis. The credit balance of £69 on 31st December, 1908, was the result of this change in the basis of the account.

Mr. RUPERT GWYNNE

asked why it was stated in an official document that the Army Council wished to close down the Imperial Government farm at Middleburg in order to obviate any loss falling on the public if, as officially stated, this farm was not run as a public undertaking and not administered as a public service?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

I am unable to trace the official document referred to, and should be glad if the hon. Member could enable me to identify it.