HC Deb 24 January 1918 vol 101 cc1137-8
66. Mr. PRINGLE

asked the Minister of National Service whether his attention has been called to the decision of the Central Appeal Tribunal in the case of Angus M'Nab Chassels, Coatbridge; what was the constitution of the tribunal which gave the decision; whether this decision reversed the unanimous findings of the local and county appeal tribunals; whether the case put before the Central Tribunal by the military representative contained statements which had been disproved in evidence at former hearings; whether the local tribunal has protested against the decision of the Central Tribunal; whether the treatment given to Mr. Chassels, as compared with other men in the same trade in Coatbridge, has given rise to general dissatisfaction; and whether, in these circumstances, the case of Mr. Chassels will be reopened by the Central Appeal Tribunal so that he may have an opportunity of being legally represented, and thus disproving the untrue statements put forward as the basis of the appeal by the military representative?

Mr. BECK

Inquiries are being made so far as the question relates to the action alleged to have been taken by the National Service representative. The questions as to the constitution of the Central Tribunal and its relations with the local and Appeal Tribunals are not matters within the scope of the Ministry of National Service.

Mr. PRINGLE

Is the Minister of National Service not informed as to the constitution of the tribunal which gives the ultimate decision in these cases?

Mr. BECK

No; we have nothing to do with the tribunal at all

Mr. WATT

Will my hon. Friend make inquiries as to how many men of military age and fitness are provided with employment?

Mr. BECK

I will consider that.