§ Mr. Jesselasked the Secretary of State for Defence on what date 63 Ormond Avenue, Hampton, Middlesex, was acquired for occupation by Army personnel; on what date it ceased to be so occupied; why it remained empty meanwhile; what action he is taking to dispose of the property; and what action he is taking to improve working methods in his Department to prevent a recurrence.
§ Mr. Robert C. Brown63 Ormond Avenue, Hampton, Middlesex was acquired in 1950. It ceased to be occupied in July 1973. During the next 12 months it was held while efforts were made to find another occupant and in July 1974 disposal was proposed. Subsequently a further likelihood of its being required as a quarter arose and disposal had to be postponed until February 1975. The property is now in the hands of the Property Services Agency which is responsible for disposal of all surplus Ministry of Defence property. The arrangements within the Department for ensuring that houses are not retained unnecessarily are under review.