§ Mr. WATTasked the Secretary for Scotland on what principle the German labour available for timber felling in Scotland has been allocated; what landowners have received this labour; and in what number?
Mr. J. HOPEThe Home-grown Timber Committee was responsible for the distribution among various forests of the prisoners of war made available for timber cutting in Scotland. Prisoners are only444W assigned to cut timber which has been purchased by the Government. The functions of the Committee are now vested in the Director of Timber Supplies.
§ Mr. SNOWDENasked the Minister of Labour if interned German prisoners are being taught the craft of brush-making; if it is intended that they shall compete with outside labour; if the United Society of Brushmakers have been consulted in the matter; and if safeguards will be taken to protect the interests of skilled workmen now employed in this occupation?
§ Sir G. CAVEMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this question. I would refer the hon. Member to the answers which I gave on this subject on the 28th February and 7th, 13th, and 14th March. It was not necessary to consult the Society of Brushmakers, because there was a great shortage of brushes, and it was clearly desirable to utilise the services of the interned men in supplying the deficiency due to war conditions. But the arrangements are of course temporary, and I am advised that there is no danger that the interests of skilled workmen in the industry will be affected.