§ Sir K. WOODasked the Prime Minister when it is proposed to return the estab- 233W lishment of Woolwich Arsenal to the control of the War Office; whether it is, as a consequence, contemplated that a further reduction in staff will be made; and whether the decision to provide alternative work for the Arsenal will be affected by such transfer to the War Office?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWArrangements are being made for the control of Woolwich Arsenal to revert to the War Office, and it is hoped that the transfer will be carried out by the 1st June next. No reduction in staff will follow as a direct consequence of the change. The present policy of a gradual reduction will be adhered to, and the promises made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to the Arsenal workmen will be respected. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.