§ 22. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Munitions if he is aware that Sir Frederick Donaldson told the Control Board that there was no drink problem in Woolwich and that further restrictions were unnecessary; will he explain why, after that expression of opinion, Sir Frederick Donaldson was removed from Woolwich Arsenal; and why were the present restrictions enforced?
§ Dr. ADDISONSir Frederick Donaldson's views on this subject were last expressed in a letter dated 3rd September, but the statement in the question does not correctly represent the view expressed by Sir Frederick Donaldson. Sir Frederick, at the request of my right hon. Friend, has recently been engaged in America upon an important temporary mission on behalf of the Ministry of Munitions. The decision to entrust him with this mission was in the interest of the production of munitions, and had, of course, no connection whatever with his opinion on restrictions on the liquor traffic, and I regret that my hon. Friend should have conveyed such a suggestion in his question.
§ Mr. COWANIs the hon. Gentleman aware that convictions for drunkenness in the area in question have decreased by 50 per cent. since these restrictions were imposed?
§ Dr. ADDISONI believe that is so.