§ 82. Major NEWMANasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the number of aliens who are now being engaged to take the place of men working in nursery and market gardens who have been called to the Colours; and whether it is proposed or is possible to ensure reinstatement of these men on the termination of hostilities should they desire it?
Mr. HARCOURTI am aware that a certain number of aliens have been engaged for this purpose, but I understand that the total number is not great. The market gardeners who have increased the number of aliens in their employ have, I am informed, given assurances that the additional labour so obtained will only be retained while the Englishmen so replaced are away. The whole question of the reinstatement of sailors and soldiers upon their return to civil life is at present under careful consideration by the Government.