HC Deb 11 April 1927 vol 205 cc30-1
56. Mr. HORE BELISHA

asked the first Lord of the Admiralty whether he intends to conduct an inquiry to ascertain to what extent other Government Departments can purchase stores from His Majesty's dockyards in order to retain some of the employeés who would otherwise be discharged from these establishments?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Lieut.-Colonel Headlam)

I would refer the. hon. Member to the reply given him on the 29th July, 1925 (OFFICIAL REPORT, columns 411–912). It is not considered that any useful purpose would be served by an inquiry.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Can the hon. and gallant Member say why it is not possible to persuade the other Government Departments to acquire their stores from national establishments?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

It is perfectly possible for Government Departments to avail themselves of the admirable stores supplied by the Admiralty. There is no need for an inquiry about that.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Will the hon. and gallant Member undertake to do something in order to relieve unemployment?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

We are always doing our best, but perhaps we are not as good advertisers as we ought to be.

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

Will the hon. and gallant Member tell me how much loss was incurred when locomotives were bought from Woolwich Arsenal?

57. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that among the 600 men who have recently received notice of discharge at Devonport Dockyard there are many old and efficient servants of the State, to whom the loss of employment will prove disastrous; and whether, in these circumstances, he will consider the possibility of retaining the services of those who have given evidence of prolonged loyalty and efficiency?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

The discharges are unavoidable, but naturally preference for retention is given to the most deserving and efficient men.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Is the hon. and gallant Member aware that some men have been discharged who have given practically a lifetime of efficient service in the Admiralty, and they have no chance of getting employment?

Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAM

The Admiralty is only too well aware that many good men have to be sacrificed.