§ 17. Mr. Robert Gibsonasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that Murdoch Sutherland, of 51, Holmscroft Street, Greenock, was employed as a solderer at the Royal Naval Torpedo Factory, Greenock, until 23rd April, 1938, when he was discharged with four other solderers in consequence of work being transferred to Alexandria; that he was offered work at the Alexandria auxiliary establishment, which he was compelled to refuse as he was unable to obtain accommodation; that, after a week's unemployment, he obtained work in Greenock at his trade as a plumber but has been refused his holiday pay; and whether he has any statement to make on the matter?
§ The First Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. Duff Cooper)I am aware that Sutherland was discharged from the Royal Naval Torpedo Factory, Greenock, under the circumstances narrated by the hon. Member. At the majority of Admiralty establishments, including the Royal Naval Torpedo Factory, leave is given in a closed week in August, and the privilege is confined to workpeople who are in the Admiralty service at the time. I regret that Sutherland does not fulfil this condition.