§ Mr. FELLI desire to ask the Secretary of State for War how many lads reached the age of 21 and were in consequence discharged from Woolwich Arsenal since the beginning of the year, and how many men reached the old-age limit, and were discharged for that reason, during the same period, and what is the reduction in number of workmen employed in consequence of these discharges?
§ Mr. HALDANEForty-eight lads left since 1st January last on reaching the age of 21; and 10 lads who had previously reached that age and had been temporarily retained also left. Sixteen men reached the old-age limit and were discharged. As none of the above lads or men have been replaced, the total of the above figures—i.e., 74—gives the total reduction in the number of workmen. The number of workmen is still in excess of the minimum fixed, but, as I have already stated on more than one occasion, the reductions necessary to reach this limit are taking place by way of wastage only, and not by discharge.
§ Mr. FELLI understand that not only have none of these men been taken on, but that no men have been substituted in their places?
§ Mr. HALDANENo; none have been added to the establishment with respect to them.
§ Mr. CROOKSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are 57 lads under notice to go? I have all their names in my pocket.
§ Mr. HALDANEI am not aware of that. It may be that they have attained the age of 21, but I do not know. My hon. Friend had better put down a question.
§ Mr. ROWLANDSIs it not possible to afford some facility to re-engage these lads instead of throwing them into the ranks of the unemployed?
§ Mr. HALDANENot unless we oust adult men who have wives and families to provide for.