Mr. SHIRLEY BENNasked if the Government can hold out any hope of finding employment for the 606 men discharged from the Devonport Dockyard during the month of April; and, with a view to prevent injury to the working classes in the towns of Plymouth, Devon-port, and Stonehouse, if they will take steps to prevent in the future the discharge in one month of such a large number of workers?
§ Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKEBefore the right hon. Gentleman answers this question. I should like your ruling, Sir, as to whether it is in order for one hon. Member to ask questions in regard to another hon. Member's constituency?
§ Mr. CROOKSMight we have the number of Conservatives who have asked questions about Woolwich?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThere is no such rule.
§ Mr. McKENNAThe men in question were entered for temporary duty on specific jobs on the completion of which their services were dispensed with. Whenever circumstances permit arrangements are made for discharges of workmen to be carried out gradually. It cannot be said at present when the services of these men will again be required.