§ Colonel LOCKWOOD (Essex, Epping)To ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that four men at the Waltham Gunpowder Factory were, on Saturday last, reduced from 28s. to 25s 6d. per week, and that five men were reduced from 25s. 6d. to 23s. 6d. per week; will he say what was the respective length of service of each of these men; whether any notice of such reduction was given to them; whether any faults or complaints could be alleged against the said employees; and whether in future he would direct that a fortnight's notice of any reduction be given to the men in order to give them an opportunity to consider the same through their organisation.
(Answered by Mr. Buchanan.) Ten men were reduced in rating on 3rd February on account of being put on a lower class of work from that date, sufficient work paid at the higher rate previously received not being available. These reductions are approximately equivalent to the amounts mentioned by the hon. and gallant Member, The men at Waltham Abbey are not paid according to length of service, but according to the nature of the work performed. As much notice of any change in rate is given as is possible, but a fortnight's notice cannot be guaranteed.