HC Deb 21 May 1910 vol 116 cc359-60
21. Mr. NEIL M'LEAN

asked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that many of the men who were transferred from Southern dockyards to Rosyth during the War are anxious to return to their native districts, where the climate and customs are more suitable; whether he is aware that a large number have already had to leave Rosyth for health reasons and have had to meet the expense of removal, in some cases by selling their homes; that they have had to sacrifice increases in pay secured whilst working at Rosyth, and have lost their positions on the establishment, thereby for feiting all weekly deductions from their wages towards their pensions; whether he can state the number of men who were, transferred to Rosyth and the number still there; and whether, now that the War emergency has ceased, he will favourably consider the possibility of transferring to their native districts men who so desire, without prejudice to their position as established servants?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Large numbers of workmen were transferred from the Southern dockyards to Rosyth as volunteers on the distinct understanding that the transfer would be of a permanent character. The men transferred were offered certain advantages, including transfer to the permanent pensionable list, after twelve months' service at Rosyth, subject to eligibility under the Regulations. In. addition, the cost of removing the men's homes, amounting to considerable sums in some cases, was defrayed out of public funds. As regards retransfer to the South, this has been permitted on the grounds of health in a number of cases, but in fair ness to the general body of men, we have been bound in those cases to withdraw the establishment which was secured on the preferential terms conditional upon service in Rosyth. As regards the last part of the question, I am afraid that, in view of the necessity to keep Rosyth fully manned, it is not practicable to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Sir H. CRAIK

May I ask whether the Admiralty accept the account of Rosyth and the inference in the question, seeing that Rosyth is in the neighbourhood of a number of health resorts peculiarly conducive to good health?

Dr. MACNAMARA

My hon. Friend put the question on behalf of another hon. Member, and I do not know whether he is a party to the same.

Sir H. CRAIK

I hope we shall have the assurance of the Admiralty that they will not take the account of the healthiness of Rosyth from the question.