or manufacture of munitions had to be made very
hurriedly, as it took the Government and the heads of the army a long
time to realise the fact that in a war against the organised forces of
Germany greater quantities of munitions of all sorts, some of an
entirely new kind, would be required by the army and navy. Our infantry
were exposed to the bombardment of the enemy while the British artillery
was unable to reply. Nothing is more wonderful and more creditable to
the Minister who first took charge of the matter, to the heads of
producing firms, and also to the workmen and the leaders of their Trade
unions all over the country, than the way in which new factories were
built, old factories enlarged, and output increased to the utmost. In
the course of a few months rough vacant spaces all over the country were
covered with admirably planned and well organised works. In a short time
employers generally learned to understand and to observe the
restrictions imposed, which were for the common good, though often
irritating to individuals.

There was, however, some dissatisfaction among many of the workmen, and
after two years the provisions as to certificates were repealed, and the
Ministry of Munitions obtained wide powers for giving directions as to
remuneration, and also to prevent munition workers from being taken for
other work. The Ministry also exercised powers for regulating what
workmen of different classes should be allowed to go to various
establishments. Such regulation was and is necessary, but it will be a
relief to British industry when this State control and the restrictions
and regulations it involves can be done away with. The process of
reversion to normal conditions as regards industry will take time,
especially in adapting establishments where the products of the munition
works are articles which are not required in time of peace. Fortunately,
there will be a great demand for labour after the War to resume work
that has been postponed, as well as for new undertakings, especially for
housing and for repairs and renewals in railways, roads, and buildings.
Work that has been put on one side to allow undivided attention to be
given to munitions will require the services of a great number of
persons and help to prevent unemployment which might otherwise arise
when the new army is disbanded.

Of the questions affecting employment after the War, the position of
discharged soldiers and sailors naturally comes fir