Mr. H. SAMUELasked the Minister of Munitions whether he is yet in a position to say what arrangements are contemplated to increase the supply of labour in the Cleveland ironstone mines; whether any steps are being taken to recall men experienced in the work of these mines who have enlisted and who can be spared from the Army; if so, what number of men is likely to be available from this source; whether any men are to be brought from elsewhere; if so, what class of men and in what number; for how many men are huts to be built; and whether any steps have been taken to ascertain whether lodgings are available in the district so that the expense of hutting might to some extent be saved?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYSteps are being taken to obtain particulars of Cleveland miners who are serving with the Colours in England and are not classified as fit for general service. The War Office will be asked to release these men for work in the Cleveland ironstone mines. It is not at present known what number of men is likely to be available from this source, but if as is anticipated this source will prove insufficient it will be necessary to bring into the Cleveland district labour from outside—both miners and labourers. The number of men required from outside cannot be definitely given till it is ascertained how many local men can be released from the Army. After careful inquiry into the lodging accommodation available in the district, huts are being built for 2,600 men.