§ 51. Mr. LYNCHasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the depressive effect upon the soldiers of favouritism or the exercise of undue privilege, he will take steps to clear all the Government offices in Whitehall of men of military age able to bear arms?
§ Mr. BECKMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. If the hon. Member suggests that men of military age are retained in Government Departments owing to favouritism or the exercise of undue privilege he is mistaken. As stated in the reply given on 31st December to the hon. Member for South Moneyhan the Civil Service has already supplied its full quota of men of military age and fitness for service with the Colours, and I am satisfied that many Departments are seriously handicapped for want of skilled staff, and that the course suggested by the hon. Member would be neither practicable nor 662 in the public interest. The matter receives the constant attention of the Ministry of National Service, and no man is retained without the concurrence of this Department.
§ Mr. LYNCHHas the Government considered not merely the military value of these men but the profound moral effect of encouraging embusqués in the Government offices?
§ Mr. BECKYes, but the Government have also to consider the profound moral effect of a break-down of the staff in all Government Departments.