HC Deb 14 August 1916 vol 85 cc1415-6
75. Mr. WARDLE

asked the Secretary of State for War under whose authority soldiers have been loaned to the Llanelly Steel Company for civilian work; whether they are being employed at military rates of pay and under military control; under what Act of Parliament this has been sanctioned; and whether this is a breach of the arrangement which has been observed in all previous cases whereby men so lent have been paid full civilian wages and been entirely under civilian control during the time they are so working?

Mr. FORSTER

These soldiers were employed under the authority of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, acting under general instructions from the War Office. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. There is a clear distinction between such military working parties and the employment of soldiers individually released from the Army for lengthy periods for work in munition factories. I have, however, arranged that in future, when it is found necessary to lend military working parties, the pay of the men shall be based on the current local rates for similar civilian labour.

Mr. WARDLE

What is the period during which men who have been enlisted are allowed to be employed?

Mr. FORSTER

It was contemplated that it would be for a very short emergency period only. As a matter of fact, no working party can be employed for more than two months without special authority.

Mr. O'GRADY

Is the money actually paid to the soldiers themselves, and will they be allowed to spend it in their own way?

Mr. FORSTER

What I contemplate is that the civilian wages will be paid to the soldier less a deduction of some 3s. 6d. a day to make up for food, lodging, clothing and so forth. The man will receive the balance in cash and can spend it as he likes.

Mr. WARDLE

Is this arrangement made under any Army Order or under any Act passed by this House?

Mr. FORSTER

I think under the Army Act.

Mr. CHURCHILL

Will the hon. Gentleman explain how the 3s. 6d. a day is calculated?

Mr. FORSTER

Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will give me notice.

Colonel ARCHER-SHEE

In the case of soldiers who are lent to farmers for harvest work, may they be given some extra pay? It appears that they get nothing at all.

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question.