On Friday week Mr. Lloyd George conferred' with engineering and
shipbuilding employers from the Clyde and the Tyne on the subject of dispensing with the Whitsuntide holiday. Trade tnion representatives were unfortunately prevented by other engage- ments from being present. Mr. Lloyd George said that the Easter holidays had had " a deplorable effect upon output." The nominal two or three days had meant in practice a week off. During the Easter fortnight the output fell by one-half. The gunners at the front still had to think of their reserves before firing to the extent they would wish. The truth was, we could not afford holidays at present. It was to him unthinkable that for the sake of general holidays we should let the gallant men at the front go short He would be utterly ashamed to do it. He appealed for a particular effort " during the next few months," adding : " I emphasize that."
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