HC Deb 14 July 1915 vol 73 cc839-40W
Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

asked the Undersecretary of State for War if he will state who is the contractor entrusted with the construction of the camp at Clip-stone, in Nottinghamshire; by what date the contractor undertook to complete the construction, and by what date it is hoped that it will be in fact completed; has the War Office received any, and what, complaints as to the manner in which the work is being carried out; and what public official is supervising the construction?

Mr. FORSTER

The contractors were W. Hodson and Son, Limited, of Nottingham. The date for completion was 6th February, but this date was contingent on a satisfactory supply of material, which was not realised, and also on certain other technical considerations. The occupation of the camp began in May and was completed early this month. Certain additional buildings are also in course of construction. No complaints of the nature referred to have been received. The work was carried out under the supervision of the director of barrack construction.

Mr. HUME-WILLIAMS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether an officer and a surveyor inspected a site for the construction of Clip-stone camp last October; whether it was then pointed out to them that a connection for the transport of material could be made with the Mansfield Railway at the cost of a few hundred pounds; whether the War Office nevertheless determined to use the roads; whether, in consequence, the roads have been so used and have been damaged to the extent of over £6,000; whether the railway connection has now been made; why it was not made at first; and who is to blame?

Mr. FORSTER

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The possibility of a railway across the valley over the Vicar Water to the camp and connecting with the Mansfield Railway was suggested, but after discussion it was decided that the cost was too great and that the railway would take too long to construct. It was subsequently arranged by the Office of Works who were supplying the timber, to use motor haulage over the roads, but, owing to the abnormally wet weather, this method was reconsidered, and finally a connection over another route was made with the Mansfield Railway.