§ 73. Sir J. WALTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in 823 order to relieve the congestion at our ports and increase the carrying power of our mercantile marine, he will consider the question of engaging the temporary services of those willing to volunteer from the ranks of the Army at present stationed in England, for the purpose of loading and discharging vessels on Government account, on equitable terms as regards payment, and as supplementary to and after the whole of the civilians available are utilised?
§ Mr. TENNANTI am obliged to my hon. Friend for his suggestion, which he will be glad to know has been anticipated by action already taken. A Labour Battalion is being formed by taking men from Territorial Force provisional battalions, and the formation of this battalion will probably be followed by the formation of other such battalions.