§ Mr. THEODORE TAYLORasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that, owing to the calling up of certain expert workmen in the Yorkshire woollen district, quantities of khaki greatcoat cloth are waiting to be milled, that machinery is standing idle for lack of labour, and that, in consequence of this, large deliveries of greatcoat cloth are in arrear which are urgently required for the clothing of our troops; and whether he will secure the return to their work of the 100 or so men whose work would immediately enable the Army's needs to be met?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe War Office is aware of the position as stated in the question and has already arranged with the Ministry of National Service to suspend recruiting of woollen operatives. At the same time the Army Council has under consideration the question of the reinforcement of the trade by the release of men from the Army.