54. Mr. T. WILSONasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that a number of young men who are being called to the Colours are serving their apprenticeship in engineering works and other workshops and factories, and that this break in their training will seriously affect their future; whether it is the intention of the Government to make any arrangement with their employers regarding their training when the War is over; and, if so, will he state what it is proposed to do?
§ Mr. BECKMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. The cases to which my hon. Friend refers are but an illustration of the many serious hardships which are inevitable in such a War as this, and I am afraid that it is not possible for the Government to make any arrangement of the nature suggested.
Mr. WILSONAre we to understand that no effort will be made to continue the training of these lads who were apprentices?
§ Mr. BECKI did not say that. I only said I could not promise that this particular suggestion would be adopted. 1 will be glad to talk to my hon. Friend about this matter.
Mr. SHIRLEY BENNMay I ask if the hon. Gentleman is aware that at the commencement of the War promises were made on recruiting platforms that steps would be taken to safeguard the position, of apprentices who enlisted?