HC Deb 13 November 1928 vol 222 cc663-4
10. Mr. ERSKINE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Supervisor F. G. Butler, an ex-service man, and a number of others have received notices to terminate their engagements at the Royal Army Clothing Factory in Grosvenor Road; and, seeing that these men are in the category of permanent civil servants, will he reconsider their cases?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Duff Cooper)

As part of a scheme of reorganisation at the Royal Army Clothing Factory—

Mr. ERSKINE

Will the hon. Member speak up? I cannot hear him.

Mr. COOPER

—which will result in substantial economy and increased efficiency, nine posts as supervisor have been abolished. Every effort is being made to find alternative work for the men displaced and in most of the cases they have already been offered unestablished appointments in other grades at the factory.

Mr. ERSKINE

Is the hon. Member aware that there are rumours of considerable favouritism in this particular case, and will he make inquiries as to whether there is truth in these rumours or not?

Mr. COOPER

I am not aware of anything of the kind, and if the hon. Member will give me any information he has, inquiries will certainly be made.

Mr. W. THORNE

Are these men senior service men or junior?

Mr. COOPER

I must have notice of that question.

Mr. BECKETT

Has the hon. Member, in common with other employers, received a letter from the Prime Minister about employing extra men?