§ Captain EARL WINTERTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that cases have occurred in which troops in training have entered upon private property and cut growing timber; whether such action without a requisition order for timber is authorised; and if steps will be taken to prevent, so far as possible, damage to timber, which cannot be repaired by monetary compensation as in the case of agricultural crops?
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§ Mr. TENNANTOne case of the kind to which the Noble Lord refers has been brought to my notice. If he has other cases in mind and would furnish me with information I will have the matter investigated. Commands are being reminded of the importance of avoiding damage of this kind.
§ Captain EARL WINTERTONasked whether, in view of the great national importance of the wheat crop, instructions will be issued to commanders of units to avoid, so far as possible, marching over wheat crops and respecting the red flags that have been provided by the War Department to mark growing crops?
§ Mr. TENNANTThe importance of the question raised by the Noble Lord is fully appreciated, and instructions have already been issued to all Commands which will, I hope, minimise the risk of damage to glowing crops.