HC Deb 10 December 1919 vol 122 c1321
77. Mr. CAIRNS

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the majority of the clerks employed in the Army pay offices and record offices of Dublin and Cork who have been dismissed, or are under notice of dismissal, have been employed at these offices since 1914; that they are now being dismissed at a time when there is practically no demand for clerical labour; that they are not entitled to unemployment donation and, except in a few instances, do not receive any gratuity; that if these men had entered ordinary civilian service in 1914 they would now be in secure employment; and whether, in the event of it being found impossible to retain the services of these men, he will favourably consider the grant of a substantial gratuity in every case in order to help the men over a period of unemployment?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am aware that discharges of civilian employés have been necessary not only in Cork and Dublin, but at a number of War Department establishments in the United Kingdom. I regret that no gratuity can be granted.