HC Deb 29 October 1946 vol 428 cc76-7W
Brigadier Low

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will issue a statement showing for how many married families quarters are now available in the following theatres: B.A.O.R., C.M.F., Palestine, Egypt, Kenya, S.E.A.C. and Japan; and what improvements are planned.

Mr. Bellenger

The latest available returns show that the following married quarters are now available in the commands named: B.A.O.R., 4,030; C.M.F., 2,239; Palestine, 96; Egypt, 376; Kenya, 16; S.E.A.C., 648. Figures for Japan are not yet available and no families from the U.K. have so far been sent there. The situation is at present under investigation.

The construction of further married quarters in overseas theatres is planned for next year. The numbers will depend on several factors, such as the future strength of the garrison and the availability of labour, materials and supervisory staff. If necessary, hirings will be made where practicable and reasonably economical. The provision of the full establishment of married quarters for the overseas postwar garrisons will necessarily be spread over a period of years.