HC Deb 07 March 1916 vol 80 cc1345-6
13. Mr. TYSON WILSON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that at Bramshott Camp parties of soldiers are being employed side by side with carpenters and joiners on work proper to the trade; that the soldiers come to the workmen to borrow the necessary tools, which are frequently never returned; that there is little work for carpenters and joiners in the neighbourhood and, if soldiers are kept on what work there is, many men in the trade of over military age or otherwise unfit for service will be unemployed and have to leave the district; and whether he will have inquiries made into the matter and put a stop to this policy of taking away the means of livelihood of civilian workmen?

Mr. FORSTER

Yes, Sir; Canadian troops are being employed in addition to civilian workmen for the purpose of completing huts at Bramshott. Owing to the increase in the numbers of the Canadian contingent the work has to be done quickly, and it is for this reason that these soldiers are being so employed. No complaints from the civilian workmen in connection with the borrowing of tools have been brought to notice.

Mr WILSON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a considerable number of carpenters over military age are out of employment at the present time?

Mr. FORSTER

No, Sir. There is no desire to use military rather than civilian labour. This is a very urgent matter and it was almost impossible to get adequate labour.