3. Mr. J. J. Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for War what steps are being taken to ensure the employment of 943 British labour, or the tuition of British labour, in the armament construction work now being done by German specialists at Irvine, Scotland?
Mr. CooperGovernment technicians have been in constant touch with the construction of this chemical plant at Irvine with a view to establishing the necessary technique in this country for the erection of further plant entirely by British labour.
Mr. DavidsonHave the Government any definite knowledge of this process, and have opportunities been given to British technicians on this job to acquire the knowledge that the German specialists have?
Mr. CooperYes, Sir. I understand that these Government technicians are learning from the German specialists and are teaching British workmen.
§ Mr. G. HardieIs it not a fact that the foreign technician has an opportunity of seeing what you do not want him to see when he is here?
Mr. DavidsonCan the House be assured that these German specialists will not be dismissed in the same way as were the Admiralty Dockyard employés?