Major MALONEasked the Secretary of State for War whether some weeks ago certain ex-service clerks employed in various departments in Woolwich were sent to the Arsenal for examination with a view to their being transferred there as their services were no longer required in the other Government Departments, and numerous men have passed that examination, but nevertheless they have received notice of discharge although they were promised employment some time ago at the Arsenal; whether he will ascertain how many non-ex-service men are at present engaged in Woolwich Arsenal; and whether he will postpone the discharge of ex-service men for such a period as may be necessary to substitute these ex service men in the Arsenal or other Government employment?
§ Lieut.-Colonel STANLEYAs my hon. and gallant Friend is no doubt aware discharges at Woolwich have been temporarily suspended pending a further consideration of the possibility of finding other work for the redundant clerks.