§ 114. Mr. C. DUNCANasked the Under-Secretary for War whether his attention has been drawn to the shortage 2270 in the supply of duck for tent-making to the people employed by Messrs. Warings at the White City; whether he is aware that between 700 and 1,000 workpeople are now working short time; and whether he will make inquiry into the matter with a view to expediting the supply so as to utilise to the full the whole of the workpeople concerned?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe matter referred to has for some time been engaging the attention of the Department. The delay in issuing the necessary supplies of duck to contractors for making up is due to the manufacturers being in arrear with their deliveries. The importance of expediting supply is fully appreciated, and all possible steps have been and are being taken to attain this object.