§ Mr. Sloanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the billeting officer at Girvan, without notice, called upon Mrs. Jane Downie, 4, Davan Street, Girvan, to eject two boarders to make room for two billetees; that in consequence of her refusal she was prosecuted and that this has caused indignation in the town; and whether he will take steps to have this officer removed?
§ Mr. WestwoodMy right hon. Friend is informed that the billeting officer gave Mrs. Downie notice two days' in advance of his intention to billet two war workers on her, and that this was brought out in court when she was fined for her refusal to comply with the billeting order. My right hon. Friend has no information as to the extent of the accommodation available but is informed that the billeting officer did not call upon Mrs. Downie to eject two boarders; he asked her to billet two workmen which she declined to do. Inconvenience to householders is sometimes unavoidable when billeting officers have to secure accommodation for essential workers at short notice. The billeting officer resigned some time ago.