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Shipyard Workers

Volume 104: debated on Wednesday 13 March 1918

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67.

asked the Minister of National Service if he is aware that skilled workmen engaged on the construction of concrete ships at Hanworthy are receiving their calling-up papers, that when the recruiting officer's attention was called to the fact that these men were engaged on shipbuilding he stated that the military authorities had not been informed that the work was shipbuilding; and whether, in view of the serious shortage of ships, he will give instructions that men engaged on this class of work must not be called to the Colours?

Instructions have already been issued to all directors of National Service to the effect that men employed by firms engaged in the construction of concrete ships are to be dealt with in the same manner and to receive similar protection under the Schedule of Protected Occupations as employés on other forms of hull construction and repair. If the hon. Member will let me have the names, addresses, and full particulars with regard to the men at Hanworthy who are alleged to have been irregularly dealt with by the recruiting authorities and also the name of the firm, I will cause investigations to be made into the matter.

Why is it necessary for the hon. Member to ask for the names and addresses of the men affected when it seems to be the general policy to call up these men; and, in view of the very serious position of the shipbuilding industry, why is not a clear Instruction issued?

My hon. Friend did not listen to my answer. First, I said: "Instructions have already been issued to all directors of National Service to the effect that men employed by firms engaged in the construction of concrete ships are to be dealt with in the same manner and to receive similar protection under the Schedule of Protected Occupations as employés on other forms of hull construction and repair."

Will the hon. Gentleman see to it that these Instructions are so framed that one gentleman cannot interpret an Instruction in one way and another gentleman in another way?

That is why I asked for the information. I believe the Instructions are being interpreted properly, but I will make inquiries.