HC Deb 09 February 1926 vol 191 cc826-7
88. Mr. KELLY

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will hold up the decision to displace civilians by the introduction of military at the heavy repair shop, Feltham?

Captain KING

No, Sir. The heavy repair shop is a military unit of the Royal Army Service Corps, which, in the ordinary course, must be partly manned by soldiers. Only civilians have been employed there hitherto because the requisite proportion of soldiers has not been available. Notice of the proposed change was given to the War Department Industrial Council on 25th April, 1925, but action has already been suspended for nine months, during which discussions on that Whitley Council have taken place with a view to minimising hardships consequent on discharges. These discussions have proved abortive, and in the interests of the State action can no longer be delayed.

Mr. KELLY

May I ask why this matter is being forced by the War Department without giving the War Department Industrial Council an opportunity of dealing with the matter Why is this departure being made by the Government when previous Governments have decided against this policy?

Captain KING

With regard to the last part of the question I have no knowledge of any decision having been taken contrary to the action now contemplated. With regard to the first part of the question, as to why it has not been put before the Industrial Council, the hon. Member himself has taken part in the discussions to which I have referred, and he knows the question has been discussed for nine months. At the present time the War Department Industrial Council does not function because an important branch of one of the trade unions concerned refuses to attend the meetings of the Council.

Mr. KELLY

In view of this matter having been before the War Department Industrial Council, and seeing that a meeting of that body is now in progress, why is the War Office imposing its decision without giving that body, with all its difficulties, an opportunity of discussing the matter.

Captain KING

The hon. Member is mistaken about the meeting taking place. There was to have been a meeting last week, but it had to be postponed owing to the refusal of one of the trade unions concerned to take any part in it.