asked the Minister of Works if his attention has been drawn to the persistent refusal of his Department to release shop premises known as 558, Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, from requisitioning; and whether he will give instructions that alternative empty premises shall be utilised, particulars of which have already been supplied to the regional office of his Ministry.

The premises are now being prepared for the use of the Ministry of Fuel and Power for an exhibition of fuel burning appliances, and I regret that, in the absence of suitable alternative accommodation, I am unable to release them. The owners of the vacant accommodation referred to in the second part of the Question are unwilling to lease the premises to my Department.