§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the method of selection for dismissals from the Government factory at Waltham Abbey: whether he is aware that out of the 230 men retained, only a very small proportion are ex-service men; and whether, in view of the pledge of His Majesty's Government, he will inquire into the matter?
§ Lieut.-Colonel STANLEYThe numbers at Waltham Abbey are being reduced, in the interests of essential economy, to a nucleus establishment of 250, and in these circumstances it is necessary to retain only those men who are thoroughly experienced and expert in the manufacture of cordite. The selection of men for discharge has been regulated by this consideration; any other system would destroy the efficiency of the factory, which it is essential to conserve.