§ Sir K. WOODasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he can now state the Government's decision in connection with short time at Woolwich Arsenal and the abolition of piece work at the Government establishment at Enfield?
§ Mr. SNELLasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he can make any statement respecting the negotiations which have taken place between himself and the representatives of the workmen in regard to the proposal to institute short time in the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich; and whether he regards this proposed reduction of working hours as a temporary measure?
§ Mr. SHINWELLAt the Ordnance Factories, Woolwich, a short working week of 43⅓ hours in place of the present 47 hour week will be introduced from Monday, 7th April, the reduction being effected by suspension of work on Saturday mornings. At the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield, piece work will be suspended with effect from the same date. As I have already intimated during the discussion with representatives of the workpeople, I hope that the need for these arrangements may prove to be of temporary duration.