§ 14. Mr. FIELDasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that resolutions have been unanimously passed by many representative public, commercial, and political bodies asking for the establishment of a permanent examining and receiving depot in Dublin for Government and war stores and supplies; whether the Duke of Connaught, when Commander-in-Chief in Ireland, promised favourable consideration; whether he is aware that such a depot would be more economical and convenient to all parties concerned; whether he will reconsider the position; and whether he can hasten the preliminaries necessary to the making of munitions in Ireland?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)I am familiar with the resolutions referred to, and so far as is possible steps have been taken to give effect to them. Samples of goods in which Irish manufacturers are interested are exhibited in Dublin, so that Irish manufacturers should have equal opportunities for tendering. A large number of items are at present received and examined in Dublin. I regret, however, that the great expense entailed in the hon. Member's suggestion would not be justified. The last part of the hon. Member's question should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Munitions.
§ Mr. FORSTERThere is an establishment in which certain items of goods produced by Irish manufacturers are received 441 and examined. There is not and it is not contemplated to establish a depot on the scale which I understand the hon. Gentleman wishes to see.
§ Mr. FIELDWhy not establish that depot permanently if it is already in operation in a limited way? I propose to call attention to this question on the Adjournment owing to the very unsatisfactory reply.
§ Mr. FORSTERI will not say it will not be made permanent.
§ Mr. FLAVINIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Irish people and Irish manufacturers unanimously make this request?
§ Mr. FORSTERI am glad to know there is any question on which the Irish people are unanimous.