HC Deb 31 December 1916 vol 88 cc1632-3
Mr. WATT (by Private Notice)

asked the Minister of Munitions if he is a position to state what decision has been come to in regard to the Glasgow deportees?

The MINISTER of MUNITIONS (Dr. Addison)

I have decided to recommend the competent military authority to cancel the Deportation Orders in respect of such of the deportees as are willing to sign an undertaking similar in form to that signed by the men to whom permission has already been given to return to Glasgow.

Mr. PRINGLE

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that it would improve the state of things on the Clyde if he gave permission to all to return without any conditions?

Dr. ADDISON

Certainly not. The only conditions are that the men shall ventilate their grievances through the orthodox unions, and that they must behave themselves properly. I do not think that is anything improper.

Mr. HOGGE

Can my right hon. Friend say, if these men are guilty of all these practices, why the Government have never ventured to put them on trial?

Dr. ADDISON

I did not say that they were guilty of any practices; I said that if they will ventilate their grievances in the proper way and not stir up strife in the shops the objection to their return will be removed, and I do not think that is unreasonable.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is the right hon Gentleman aware that such a charge has never been proved against a single man, that the requirements of such an undertaking suggests an admission on their part that they have been guilty of such practices, and that is why they will not sign; and is he also aware that the refusal to allow them to return is making them popular heroes and causing irritation among the workmen?

Dr. ADDISON

Having given the matter careful consideration, I am quite satisfied that the decision at which we have arrived is the correct one.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that one of the reasons making the Re-election of Ministers (No. 2) Act a necessity was the fear of a by-election in the Blackfrairs Division of Glasgow where one of them would have been a candidate?

Dr. ADDISON

This is the first time I have heard that suggested.

Mr. PRINGLE

But it is a fact.