HC Deb 09 July 1918 vol 108 cc159-60
34. Major NEWMAN

asked the Minister of National Service whether he has now been able to ascertain the reasons that for some time past have led to the complete failure of the National Service scheme for recruiting women in the South and West of Ireland; and who is responsible for the recruiting of women at the present time?

Mr. SAMUELS

My right hon. Friend the Minister of National Service has asked me to reply. As regards the employment of women in work of national importance in Ireland, I have nothing to add to the reply given on this subject to the hon. and gallant Member on the 17th ultimo. Women are recruited in Ireland through the Labour Exchanges and the Department of National Service.

Major NEWMAN

Who is actually responsible for National Service in Ireland? Is it the Irish Office or the Minister of National Service?

Mr. SAMUELS

A gentleman and a lady preside over the Department in Ireland under the National Service Department.

Major NEWMAN

Then my right hon. Friend the Minister of National Service should reply: To whom are those people responsible—to the Irish Government or the Minister of National Service?

Mr. KING

As there is confusion on the Treasury Bench is there not certain to be more confusion in Ireland?

Forward to