HC Deb 28 February 1917 vol 90 cc2028-9
55. Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that men passed C 1 and higher categories and afterwards found unfit and placed in lower categories are retained in labour companies, with the result that some 500 men, mostly capable workmen in various trades, are stationed at Charlton, Kent, and given no opportunity of doing useful work for which they are anxious; and whether he will see that some system will be instituted by which the energies of these men and others in similar camps throughout the country shall be applied to some useful national service?

Mr. MACPHERSON

There is no information in the War Office as to the men referred to in the question. Full instructions, however, have been issued from time to time to ensure that all C2 men and those of C3 who are retained in the Army are utilised to the full. In this case I will have inquiries made.

Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there are large numbers of men skilled in trades who are now employed for long periods of time in military working parties on mere labouring work?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Perhaps my hon. Friend will give me some information.

Mr. GLANVILLE

If I furnish the information, will further action be taken?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Certainly.

56. Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that 2,000 men are stationed at 51, Calthorpe Street, W.C., that many hundreds of them have been there for some months, that having been taken into the Army under mistaken medical reports afterwards altered to C3 they do not serve any useful purpose, having nothing to occupy their time, and are kept in a state of unwilling idleness; if he is aware that the employers of these men, being Government munition works in some cases, are anxious to have them back; will he take steps to have reversed the decision which retains those men who have been applied for; and will he instruct that any C3 men kept idle over two months for eventualities shall be released until wanted?

Mr. MACPHERSON

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this. Inquiries are being made, and my hon. Friend will be informed of the result.

Mr. GLANVILLE

Can I be informed of the result?

Mr. MACPHERSON

When I get the result of the inquiry.