HC Deb 18 October 1945 vol 414 cc1526-7W
Lieut.-Commander Hutchison

asked the Minister of Works how many hotels, including private hotels, in Edinburgh are at present requisitioned by his Ministry; and when he anticipates being able to restore these buildings to their proprietors.

Mr. Tomlinson

Five hotels in Edinburgh are at present held on requisition by the Ministry of Works, of which four are occupied by Government staffs and one as a hostel by the Empire Society War Hospitality Committee. In the absence of any alternative office accommodation, I regret that I am unable to indicate any specific period within which these premises can be returned to their owners, but every effort is being made to surrender hotel premises at the earliest possible date.

Lieut.-Commander Hutchison

asked the Minister of Works how many dwelling-houses in Edinburgh are at present requisitioned by his Department, and the estimated number of such houses that can be released between now and 31st December, 1945.

Mr. Tomlinson

Nineteen dwelling-houses in Edinburgh are at present requisitioned by the Ministry of Works, of which fourteen are occupied by Government staffs and the remainder for hostel or residential purposes. It is anticipated that one house will be released before 31st December, 1945. Dwelling-houses, particularly of the smaller type, continue to be derequisitioned in preference to other classes of property.