HC Deb 11 July 1918 vol 108 c490
32. Mr. MARRIOTT

asked the Minister of National Service whether his attention has been called to the desire of a number of women that the principle of compulsory national service for women should be forthwith adopted; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?

Sir A. GEDDES

Yes, Sir; I know that a certain number of women are in favour of the introduction of this principle; but although a definite shortage of women in certain categories exists there is not, at the moment, sufficient indication of any shortage of woman-power as a whole which would justify a measure of compulsory national service for women.