HC Deb 27 July 1916 vol 84 cc1882-3W
Mr. T. M. HEALY

asked whether the civilian clerks in the Army Service Corps, Fermoy, have been given notice that they are to be replaced by Home-service men, who are probably conscientious objectors and have no knowledge whatever of the work; if so, why are men supplanted who have given their services almost since mobilisation when the work was in a state of chaos, and who have, by loyally performing the duties entrusted to them, got it well up to date; whether two of the men being dispensed with are over military age, two under military age, and two have brothers already serving both in the Army and Navy, being the only male member of the family left at home to support their parents, and is he aware that if these men are discharged they have no prospects of getting other employment; whether these men practically lived in the office during the recent disturbance and worked day and night without receiving any extra remuneration; and will the dismissals be reconsidered?

Mr. FORSTER

I am informed that the replacements to which my hon. and learned Friend draws attention will not for the present be continued.