asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that his predecessor gave a promise to the men at the Royal Arsenal that there should not be a reduction of piece rates unless an improved method of manufacture was introduced and that, notwithstanding this promise, young men of between eighteen and twenty years of age have been employed in the metal case factory, Royal Laboratory Department, Woolwich, at rates 33 per cent, less than the rates paid to the men; and if he will arrange that all work be paid at the same rate whether performed by old or new hands?

I cannot agree that boys should be paid the full wages of men; and I cannot admit that the promise referred to contemplated anything of the kind.

May I ask whether the promise mentioned in the question was actually given?

Yes, the promise was given, but it does not cover this case, but the case of the men only.

Has that promise been carried out?

Yes, it will be observed.

Can the hon. Gentleman say why it is there should be any alteration made seeing that it is piece rates that are under consideration?

I explained before that this work was very suitable for boys. We have often been pressed by hon. Members from the benches below the Gangway to retain boys, and having suitable work we thought it better to retain them.