§ 23. Mr. WARDLEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether there is any intention on the part of the military authorities to press for the release for the Army of any more of the remaining eligible men employed in the various banks; whether he is aware that the maximum number obtainable would not exceed 1,000 and that the nucleus of experienced staff left is already greatly overtaxed in carrying out the work; and whether, before any attempt is made further to reduce the remainder, the Treasury and the chief banking authorities will be consulted as to the advisability or otherwise of this course being adopted?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONNo unusual pressure is, so far as I know, being exerted against banks to release men for the Army. Arrangements have from time to time been made with a representative bankers'" advisory committee as to the proportion, of men to be so released. The situation is naturally not the same to-day as it was six months ago, and more men are needed for the Army from all industries. Should' the Clearing House banks consider that they cannot release the men whom it is considered should now or in the near-future be made available for the Army, the question will no doubt be decided by the tribunals.
§ 58. Mr. WARDLEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he was aware of any intention on the part of the military authorities to demand the release for the Army of further members of the already 2015 depleted staffs of the various banks; whether he was aware that the maximum number obtainable would not exceed 1,000; and whether, in view of the fact that any reduction of the remaining overtaxed and experienced staffs will seriously hamper the banks in carrying out their duties, he will make representations to the military authorities on the matter?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)I will give careful consideration to any representations that may be made to me by the banks on this subject.