HC Deb 24 June 1907 vol 176 cc878-80
MR. FELL

I beg to ask the Secretary f State for War how many men were discharged from Woolwich Arsenal during the week ending 22nd June; and how many received notices to take effect at the end of the following two weeks.

MR. HALDANE

Fifty-six men were discharged during the week ending 22nd instant, fifty-six men have received notice to take effect on the 29th instant, and up to the present eleven men to take effect on the 6th proximo.

MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the discharges will terminate?

MR. HALDANE

I cannot give the exact time, but it is not very far off now.

MR. FELL

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War if, in the discharges taking place at Woolwich, consideration is given to the cases of those who would shortly be entitled to receive bonuses on leaving; and whether any inquiries or representations on this head have been received.

MR. HALDANE

Representations on this head have been received and each case receives individual consideration.

MR. FELL

Do the authorities give consideration to the cases of men who are on the point of becoming entitled to their bonus—I think it is after six or seven years service?

MR. HALDANE

In such cases we do all in our power to keep them on.

MR. FELL

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War if the workmen discharged at Woolwich each receive a card giving advice as to emigrating; and if, in doing this, the authorities have considered the fact that every skilled artisan is estimated to be worth at least £300 to the country which may secure him as a citizen.

MR. HALDANE

I explained on the 13th ultimo, in answer to a similar Question from the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, that workmen discharged at Woolwich receive cards informing them that, should they wish to emigrate, the Emigrants' Information Office will supply them with the most reliable information. This action is taken in the interests of the men, and to prevent their being misled by bogus agencies.