§ 78. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions on what ground Mr. E. J. Poole, late Royal Engineers, who came over from South America in 1915 at his own expense to fight for his country in France, was dismissed from his employment at the Mechanical Transport depot at Slough when other men who had not served remained in employment in that particular gang?
§ Mr. FORSTERI have been asked to answer this question. Inquiries are being made, and I will communicate with my hon. and gallant Friend as soon as I am in a position to do so.
§ Colonel ASHLEYWill the right hon. Gentleman state whether it is the policy of the Government that in employment of 2723 this sort those who have fought for their country should have the preference over those who remained at home and drew large wages?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe policy is, so far as possible to give preference to the men who have served.
§ Colonel ASHLEYShould there not be an absolute preference?
§ Mr. FORSTEROther things being equal, there would be.