106. Mr. C. WASONasked the Minister of Munitions if he is aware that numbers of persons, after having been treated by tribunals with consideration, take refuge from military service by entering munition works; and if he will take into consideration the combing such persons out of munition works?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY OF MUNITIONS (Sir Worthington Evans)If my hon. Friend will furnish particulars of any cases of which he has knowledge my right hon. Friend will have them investigated. A general instruction has been issued withdrawing all war service badges and certificates as from 18th December from all men entered on the Employers' Register as semi-skilled and unskilled. This will enable the men affected to be called up as soon as they can be spared from, or replaced in, their present employment.
§ Sir W. EVANSIt takes effect as from 18th December.
Mr. T. WILSONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the military authorities are calling out skilled men as well as unskilled men?
§ Sir W. EVANSThis answer deals with unskilled and semi-skilled.
§ Mr. ALDENWill the hon. Gentleman take care not to comb out men who are unfit for military service when they may very well serve on munition work?
§ Mr. KEATINGHas the Government defined what is a skilled man?
§ Sir W. EVANSThe Government have done their best in that direction.