HC Deb 04 July 1918 vol 107 cc1850-1
49. Mr. HOLT

asked the Prime Minister if he will consider whether, in view of the change of policy with regard to the national shipyards, the soldiers employed on constructing these yards would at present be more profitably employed on agricultural work?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The policy with regard to the construction of national shipyards is in no way affected by the decision to man the yards with civilian labour. The completion of the yards is a matter of great urgency, and the Government are satisfied that the soldiers engaged are most profitably employed in doing this work.

Mr. HOLT

Is the Government satisfied that soldiers are more profitably engaged on this work than in getting in the harvest?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes; that is our view.

Sir C. HENRY

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the; House an opportunity of discussing this question of national shipyards?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes; I think the sooner the opportunity the better, and I hope we may soon be able to put down the Vote.