I propose to raise a question on the adjournment as to the relative position of the Minister for Defence with other Ministers in respect to public buildings when Military emergencies do not require such action.
QUESTION ON ADJOURNMENT.
The question concerns the relation of the Minister for Defence to the public generally in regard to the occupation of buildings. Perhaps Deputy Johnson would give the Minister some more information.
The whole matter arises out of the question raised by Deputy Corish, and I think more information is requisite. It is impossible to get that information by supplementary question and answer, and I think the matter can be better discussed on a motion on the adjournment.
That is to say the whole question of buildings at present in occupation by the military, or the right of the military further to occupy premises?
It is the latter. I may say the point is, while one can appreciate the need of the Military Authorities having over-riding power over any other authority in time of war, that is not the authority they should exercise when military necessities do not compel them to do so.