HC Deb 16 June 1915 vol 72 cc647-8
42. Mr. KING

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he is aware that men have, in many instances, given up posts and positions in order to hold themselves in readiness to take work at a moment's notice in the making of munitions of war, that many such have for weeks had their names down at Labour Exchanges and are unemployed, while the work previously done by them is left unfinished; and whether it is the policy of the Ministry of Munitions to encourage a large number of persons to remain unemployed so as to have a surplus of labour from which to draw?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MUNITIONS DEPARTMENT (Dr. Addison)

My right hon. Friend has no information to the effect stated in my hon. Friend's question, but he would be prepared to make inquiries if my hon. Friend would furnish him with specific instances. The reply to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. KING

Is my hon. Friend aware that a great number of persons in all parts of the country have actually left their employment, believing that they are doing a patriotic service in holding themselves ready to go out at a moment's notice?

Dr. ADDISON

I am not aware of that.