§ 68. Mr. DUNCAN MILLARasked the Minister of National Service if he can state approximately the proportion of men engaged in luxury or non-essential trades who at present hold exemption certificates, and the number of men he expects to obtain from this source under the Military Service Bill?
§ Mr. BECKThe number of men of military age who are engaged in non-essential trades is under half a million. This figure includes a large number of men who are not fit for general service. It is hoped, however, to recruit from this section of men, before the end of September this year, considerably over 100,000 men of all categories. The total number of men of all ages in Great Britain engaged in non-essential trades is approximately 2,000,000. It cannot, however, be said that these are all engaged in luxury trades. It must be remembered, too, that many trades which are, as a whole, rightly described as non-essentail may be in part essential.
§ Mr. G. FABERWhy cannot it be done before the end of September?
§ Sir CHARLES HENRYCan the hon. Gentleman give any examples?
§ Mr. BECKThe best examples may be found in the Scnedule to the Restricted Occupations Order. I would point out to my hon. Friend that most of these men are not fit for general service.
§ Major HUNTMay I ask whether this includes all the men in the Government Departments?