HC Deb 19 March 1929 vol 226 cc1578-9
11. Mr. KELLY

asked the Secretary of State for War the number of boys engaged on explosives work in the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich?

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

The number of male employés under 21 years of age engaged on explosives work at War Department establishments at the Royal Arsenal is approximately 270.

Mr. KELLY

Are any boys employed where there is danger of explosion?

Mr. COOPER

A certain number.

Mr. KELLY

Is it not inadvisable that any boys should be employed on work where there is danger of explosion?

Mr. COOPER

They are not engaged in any work in which the employment of youths is more likely to lead to explosion than the employment of older men.

Mr. MACLEAN

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that this work is suitable for boys of the age mentioned; and will he see that they are replaced by men?

Mr. COOPER

The work is perfectly suitable for boys.

Mr. MACLEAN

Work in an explosives factory! Would you send your boy there?

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