HC Deb 27 April 1917 vol 92 cc2731-2
14. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he can give the number of men badged by the Ministry of Muni- tions whose only qualification was, and is, that the men so badged put capital into munition firms; and whether-he proposes to debadge such of these men as are of military age?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. Kellaway)

A written answer to the hon. Member's question was circulated with the OFFICIAL REPORT for 26th April (see column 2606). The answer was to the following effect: No badges have been issued by the Ministry of Munitions on the ground that the applicant had put capital into a munition firm.

Mr. HOGGE

If I give my hon. Friend the names of men who have put capital into munition firms, and are working in other occupations and are still badged, will he examine their case?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I shall be prepared to examine any case which bears out the insinuation in the question.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is it not the case that men in munition firms have been badged, although previous to entering those firms they had no technical knowledge or skill?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I make the same reply. I will examine any relevant facts which will help to substantiate the insinuation.