HC Deb 31 May 1916 vol 82 cc2738-9W
Mr. OUTHWAITE

asked the Minister of Munitions whether he can state the number of single men who have been combed out of munition works and controlled establishments; and whether it is proposed to continue this process in view of the shortage of munitions he has recently called attention to?

Dr. ADDISON

Between 11,000 and 12,000 notices withdrawing badge certificates have been issued by the Ministry of Munitions during the last two months. I am unable to say how many single men this number includes. A large number of additional recommendations for the withdrawal of such certificates have been received and are being considered. It is proposed to continue the inspection of firms holding War Service badges and to withdraw certificates from men who can be replaced, without damage to the output of munitions, by women or other labour ineligible for military service.