asked the Secretary of State for War what is the number of married families, officers and other ranks, at present accommodated in Tripolitania; why is not additional accommodation made available; and what is the estimated cost of requisitioning such accommodation and putting it in a fit state for occupation by British women and children.

One hundred and eighteen officers' and 46 other ranks families are at present accommodated in Tripolitania. Certain additional accommodation, on which engineer repair work will be required, has been earmarked, but firm plans for the acquisition of these properties cannot be concluded until the final strength and location of the garrison are fixed. The cost of requisitioning this accommodation cannot be assessed until the extent of the commitment is known.