HC Deb 04 December 1941 vol 376 cc1229-30
3. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Minister of Labour how many artistes have been excused call-up under the Military Service Act or the National Registration Act by reason of employment with the Entertainments National Service Association?

Mr. Bevin

Three hundred and twenty-one men have been granted deferment of their calling up for Military Service because of their employment with the Entertainments National Service Association. I have no statistics as to the results of interviews of employees of the Entertainments National Service Association registered under the Registration for Employment Order.

Mr. Walkden

Can we have, at a later date, the classification or groups—whether these artistes are actors, actresses, variety artistes, or what particular branch of the profession they belong to?

Mr. Bevin

I would ask my hon. Friend if he would leave it until the whole review has taken place under the individual deferment plan. All cases will then come under review, and I do not think it is necessary to refer back for information which might be out of date.

Mr. Walkden

I quite agree.

Mr. Bellenger

Is the Minister aware that the impression is often created both by E.N.S.A. people, and also by some of his own officers in Employment Exchanges, that those who do accept appoint- ments with E.N.S.A. can be excused from calling-up?

Mr. Bevin

Oh, no; that is not so.