Colonel GRIFFITHSasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will take steps for the erection of a repair unit somewhere in France where such things as shell-carriers and other articles constantly in use may be economically and expeditiously repaired instead of sending such work to Woolwich or elsewhere for repair?
§ Mr. FORSTERMy hon. Friend is attempting to force an open door. Large workshops, fitted with every description of necessary machinery and tools, and employing a large number of artificers, form part of the Army Ordnance Depots at each base. There are, in addition, smaller workshops at other stations, and in addition travelling workshops allotted to corps and armies. Articles such as shell-carriers are not sent to Woolwich for repair. It is only when repairs are beyond the capacity of the shops mentioned that the stores are sent to this country for repair.