4 DECEMBER 1909, Page 19

We see it stated that the War Office intends to

provide cubicles in barracks. We are sincerely glad to hear it. No doubt this decision is due to the popularity of the experimental barracks at Woking. About ten years ago we urged on the War Office the extreme desirability of providing cubicles. We pointed out that the expense was not pro- hibitive, as the Rowton Houses were furnished with cubicles, although they were built more cheaply than barracks. Our entreaties fell oil deaf ears, but now, when we had almost reconciled ourselves to what seemed to be inevitable, we are surprised and pleased to hear of a change of policy. Whatever extra cost there may be will, we are sure, be counterbalanced by the improvement in recruiting. A very large number of young men who belong to a class which it is desirable to have represented in the Army shrink from the publicity of barrack dormitories. Cubicles are sure tobe a good recruiting agent