HC Deb 07 November 1911 vol 30 cc1460-1
Mr. DOUGLAS HALL

asked the total number of troops employed in maintaining order during industrial disputes in the British Isles during the years 1900–6 and the years 1906 to 31st October, 1911?

Colonel SEELY

There are no statistics readily available to enable me to give the required information.

Mr. DOUGLAS HALL

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to obtain them?

Colonel SEELY

It is very difficult to get the exact information. I will find out how long it will take, and communicate with the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. KELLAWAY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the cost of the use of the military in connection with the recent railway strike will be borne by the railway companies?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. McKinnon Wood)

The answer is in the negative. There is no precedent for such a course.

Mr. KELLAWAY

asked the Prime Minister if the Government intended to pay compensation to the dependents of those who were killed by the military in connection with the recent railway strikes?

Mr. McKENNA

The Prime Minister has asked me to reply to this question. The answer is in the negative.

Mr. KELLAWAY

Have the Government made any demand on the railway companies in connection with the railway strike?

Mr. McKENNA

Not that I am aware of.

Mr. WATT

Has any demand been made on the railway companies to subscribe, either to the expense of the military or in connection with the injuries resulting therefrom?

Mr. McKENNA

If the hon. Member means a demand made by the Government, not so far as I am aware. But there may have been demands made by private persons; I know nothing about that.

Mr. KELLAWAY

When will the right hon. Gentleman be able to state how much the railway strike cost, owing to the use of the military?

Mr. McKENNA

My hon. Friend should address that question to the Under-Secretary for War.

Mr. KELLAWAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have already done so, and have got no satisfactory reply?