§ MR. PULESTON (Devonport)asked the Secretary to the Admiralty, Whether 978 he can now relieve the anxiety prevailing in Devonport by stating what course has been determined upon in reference to the 350 men in the Dockyard who have been served with notices of discharge; whether he is aware that these notices take effect this week, and that, if carried out, the distress already existing there will be greatly increased; and, whether it is a fact that all hands at present in the Dockyards cannot be usefully employed?
§ THE CIVIL LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (Mr. R. W. DUFF) (Banffshire)I can only refer my hon. Friend to my answer of yesterday. The Admiralty are fully entitled to discharge these men on the 20th instant, in accordance with their agreement on entry; but in view of the present depression in the labour market efforts will be made to find work for as many men as can be economically and usefully employed, and the Controller of the Navy is in communication with Devonport with a view to effect this object.
§ MR. PULESTONasked whether the hon. Gentleman was aware that the notices expired this week?
§ MR. R. W. DUFFI am perfectly aware of that.