§ 29. Mr. STUART-WORTLEYasked the President of the Local Government Board whether the National Register Committee, of which Lord Lansdowne is chairman, continues to hold sittings and is giving its attention to the list of occupations reserved from enlistment?
§ Mr. LONGThe Committee in question was appointed shortly after the passing of the National Registration Act to advise His Majesty's Government on the best method by which the National Register could be utilised for the successful prosecution of the War. It held several meetings, made useful recommendations on various points coming within the scope of its reference, and was of assistance in bringing about an understanding between the Departments concerned. As suggestions have been made that there were serious differences of opinion between the Committee and the Board of Trade, I should like to say that no such differences arose. The question of reserved, as distinct from "starred," occupations has from the first been dealt with by an Interdepartmental Committee, representing the following Departments: War Office, Home Office, Board of Trade, General Register Office, and assisted by expert advisers; and, except in the case of the earlier lists of reserved occupations, did not come before Lord Lansdowne's Committee. I should like to take this opportunity of expressing on behalf of the Government their cordial appreciation of the work this Committee has performed. It has now been decided to strengthen the Interdepartmental Committee, and the conclusions at which it may arrive will be referred for decision to a Committee of the Cabinet. In these circumstances Lord Lansdowne has suggested to me that it has become unnecessary to retain the National Register Committee.