§ 100. Mr. Hareasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is satisfied that adequate arrangements have been made for the reception, accommodation and future living conditions for wives and families of serving soldiers who will soon be arriving in Palestine.
§ Mr. LawsonThe number of married quarters existing in Palestine before the war was very small and no new building could be carried out during the war. The number of families that can be adequately accommodated in the immediate future is therefore limited, but plans are being considered for converting a camp to provide additional temporary married quarters of an austerity type. Wives and families will only be permitted to go to Palestine if the local commander is satisfied that suitable accommodation is available and that local conditions are safe for them. As in other overseas commands, the provision of permanent quarters can only be regarded as a long-term project owing to the shortage of labour and materials.