HC Deb 15 May 1939 vol 347 cc990-1
62. Mr. Lyons

asked the Minister of Health the decision which has been reached by the Skegness Council with reference to the make-up of pay of any employés of the council who may be mobilised for service in the Forces or in Civil Defence; and whether he will issue directions that in all such cases the difference between prevailing Service rates and civilian incomes should be paid by the local authority during the full period of Service?

Mr. Bernays

I have obtained from the Skegness Urban District Council a copy of a minute of a meeting recording their resolutions on the subject to which my hon. and learned Friend refers, and I am sending him a copy. My right hon. Friend has no power to issue directions to local authorities on this matter. He has, however, already issued a circular to them in connection with the contemplated legislation in regard to the pay and superannuation of their employés called up for National Service in the event of an emergency. The position of employés, affected by the Military Training Bill and the Reserve and Auxiliary Forces Bill is now receiving my right hon. Friend's consideration.

Mr. Lyons

Is it a fact that the Skegness local authority have decided that they will not make up the amount to men who are called up for National Service, and if that is the case will the Department, whatever legal power they may have, make strong representations about this public scandal?

Mr. Bernays

My right hon. Friend has already issued a circular to local authorities on the matter. It is not possible to give a specific direction.

Mr. T. Williams

Is not the hon. and learned Member for East Leicester (Mr. Lyons) an advocate for reducing rates?

Mr. Lyons

Is the reply which has been given to the local authority of the nature which I have indicated?

Mr. Bernays

I have already indicated its nature.

Mr. George Griffiths

Has not the hon. Member for South Croydon (Mr. H. G. Williams) anything to say about this matter?