§ 52. Sir G. GREENWOODasked the Minister of National Service if he is aware of the resentment which is being caused in many places, and especially in munition areas, by the fact that men up to the age of forty-eight are being called up under the Military Service Act while many hundreds of young men in such areas are exempt because they are in possession of exemption certificates; whether such certificates have been in numerous instances granted without sufficient cause or consideration; and whether he will take steps in order that such certificates may be reviewed?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of NATIONAL SERVICE (Mr. Beck)I can assure my hon. Friend that the subject referred to in his question receives the constant attention of the Minister of National Service. I have carefully read the correspondence which my hon. Friend has kindly submitted to the Ministry. I understand that 2352 the references are to protection certificates issued under the Schedule of Protected Occupations, M.M.130 (revised), and are not certificates granted by tribunals. The Schedule in question was revised in February last with a view to releasing as many Grade 1 men as is consistent with maintaining the output of essential war supplies.