MR. KEAELEY (Devonport)I beg to ask the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether the Government have completed their inquiry into and consideration of the principle of classification now in vogue in Her Majesty's Dockyards; if so, when they intend to announce their decision as to its abolition or otherwise?
§ MR. E. ROBERTSONThe inquiry into all the questions connected with the Dockyards is complete, so far as the evidence of the workmen is concerned. The Admiralty has arrived at definite conclusions on certain of the points involved, but it is considered preferable to make no announcement until the general result can be stated.
§ MR. KNATCHBULL H. HUGESSEN (Kent, Faversham)Will the hon. Gentleman be able to give an answer before Whitsuntide. It is a matter causing great anxiety in the Dockyards?
§ MR. E. ROBERTSONI am fully aware of the importance of the question, but I cannot tie myself to any particular time.