§ Mr. SUMMERBELLasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the order issued by the Admiralty for the removal of the Portland and Weymouth Coaling Company's coaling hulk "Ethiopia" from Portland Harbour will result in 250 workpeople being deprived of their means of livelihood; whether he will state the reasons for the issue of this order; and whether he will reconsider the matter with a view to the withdrawal, if possible, of the order, and so leave undisturbed the means of livelihood of the workpeople concerned?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)With regard to the first part of the question, I am aware that the statement has been made, but it has been disputed, and the circumstances are not within my knowledge. Protection of naval interests in the harbour is the reason for the order. With regard to the third part of the question, as representations have been made to me on this subject, and are now receiving my immediate consideration, I am not in a position at present to make a reply.
§ Mr. SUMMERBELLMay I ask with regard to the disputed points whether he will make inquiries?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe question as to whether 250 people are or are not out of work, important as it may be, is not really the matter which is in dispute between the parties.