HC Deb 05 June 1917 vol 94 c9
10. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

asked the Under-Secretary for War, with reference to the men of the Highland Light Infantry who formed part of a military working party at Morecambe and who, not being considered fit for heavy labouring work, were registered but not enrolled as Army Reserve munition workers and were returned to Hipswell Camp, whether he is aware that these men desired to be enrolled as Army Reserve munition workers, but were refused permission on the ground "that they were not fit for heavy labouring work, and that they are now employed only on odd fatigue jobs in camp; and if he will consider whether these men could be more usefully employed in the national interest on munitions or other work in the Clyde area?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The facts are as stated in the first part of the question. My hon. Friend will realise that it is not always possible for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Munitions to place men in the districts where they desire to work, as the paramount consideration is to place them where they are most needed in the national interest.

Mr. SCOTT

Is it not the case that these men were desirous of enrolling and were refused permission?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am informed not.