32. Colonel THORNEasked the Minister of Munitions if he is aware that the compulsory closing of munitions factories during August for certain periods will entail hardship upon workmen who have to lose wages; and if he can see his way to make gratuities to workmen to cover the financial loss entailed by the closing of the factories?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of MUNITIONS (Mr. Kellaway)The holidays to be taken by munitions factories during August will be in accordance with the previous practice of individual firms or districts. No instructions have been or will be issued by the Ministry, except in respect of firms required to work during the holiday period because of military necessities. The payment of wages both to workmen on holiday and those asked to work will follow whatever is the existing practice.