Major HENDERSONasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions the total value of surplus Government munitions and other property still awaiting disposal at Georgetown; what steps are being taken to dispose of this property by auction or otherwise; whether any opportunities are given for the purchase of small lots, and of guns and munitions as scrap; and what steps are taken to prevent theft and deterioration?
Mr. HOPEApproximately one-half of the stores and materials at Georgetown are surplus to requirements, but the other half are reserve stocks held by the War Office which are not available for disposal. Already a considerable part of the surplus stores have been sold and are awaiting removal. It is thought that the total value of surplus stores which are available and awaiting disposal is about £250,000. Sales have been effected by auction, tender, and private treaty, and further sales have already been arranged. Wherever practicable opportunities are given for purchasing small lots, and it is probable that such guns and munitions as are surplus will be disposed of as scrap. Every possible precaution is taken to prevent theft and deterioration of material pending disposal.