30. Colonel THORNEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Munitions if he is aware that in 1916 the Ailsa Craig Motor Company was taken over by the Government, which was in full working order and employing a good number of men; if he is aware that in 1916 the major part of the machinery was taken away to supply the national shell factory for making high explosive shells; if he is aware that up to the present time the machinery has not been replaced, and that in consequence a number of the old employés cannot be found employment and are receiving the unemployment pay; and if he will take action in the matter?
32. Mr. J. JONESasked the Parliamentary Secretary if he is aware that, owing to the action of the Ministry in taking away an amount of machinery from the Ailsa Craig Motor Company, Limited, 1323 Chiswick, it is impossible for them to find work for a large number of employés, and they have had to discharge them in consequence; and if he can make arrangements for the machinery so taken to be restored to the company in order that they may be able to re-engage their old employés?
§ 33. Mr. ROBERT YOUNGasked the Parliamentary Secretary whether he is aware that the Ailsa Craig Motor Company, Chiswick, are unable to start their works, which were taken over by the Department, pending necessary assistance from the Department; and whether, in view of the fact that the firm are therefore unable to employ workmen and thus relieve the present volume of unemployment, steps will be taken at once to enable the firm to reopen their works?
§ The DEPUTY-MINISTER of MUNITIONS (Mr. Kellaway)An agreement which will allow the company to resume operations in their old factory and re-employ their old workpeople has been prepared. The completion of the agreement is held up pending the receipt of the assent of a few of the creditors of the company who have not yet signified their approval. I am doing everything in my power to expedite the completion of the agreement.