HC Deb 06 May 1924 vol 173 cc207-9
19. Mr. SNELL

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether, considering the importance of the workmen in the employ of the Government being able to visit the Empire Exhibition at Wembley, and that the time available on Saturdays after the usual working

Mr. WALSH

I regret that I am not in a position to give my hon. and gallant Friend the information asked for. No figures for recruiting by counties are available, but information exists in respect of definite recruiting areas up to 31st October, 1917. As this involves many figures I will, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, circulate them in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. HEALY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Ulster consists of nine counties, three of which are in the Free State?

Mr. WALSH

I am aware that there were certain overlapping areas in connection with the recruiting towns, and that is the reason why no answer of the kind asked for can be given. But I will circulate the whole of the information.

Following is the statement:

hours is inadequate for this purpose, he will consider the possibility of granting a day's leave with pay to the workmen employed in the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich and other Government factories under the control of the War Office in order that they may visit the exhibition?

Mr. S. WALSH

I regret that I am not in a position to make any special recommendation in this matter in regard to workmen employed by the War Department. As my hon. Friend will appreciate, the extra charge upon public funds involved by the grant of a special holiday with pay for the purpose indicated would be considerable.

Sir K. WOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman again consider the matter, in view of the fact that many private firms are adopting the course which is now suggested?

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