§ 27. Mr. SMALLWOODasked if calling-up notices recently issued, up to and including the date of 8th June, 1918, to coal loaders and carmen have been cancelled for the purpose of reissue; and, if so, having regard to the fact that many men joined up under these calling-up notices between 1st and 8th June, whether he will sec that they are reinstated, so that they are not prejudiced by the lateness of the cancellation, which was dated after 8th June?
§ Sir A. GEDDESNotices issued to certain coal loaders and carmen have been cancelled to allow the men concerned to make application to tribunals. This was done because these men, in ignorance of the technical procedure, applied to tribunals for late hearings when, in fact, tribunals had no power to grant such hearings. The proper procedure was for the men or their employers to apply to the Director-General of National Service for permission to go before a tribunal. It was felt, however, that it would be taking advantage of a technical point and not dealing with the cases on their merits if the men were refused permission to have their cases heard. It was for this reason that the notices were cancelled and fresh ones issued. This has been done in every case in which the attention of my Department has been directed to the matter.
§ Mr. SMALLWOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that through the Coal Department a notice has been issued to the effect that calling up notices recently issued up to and including the 8th of June, 1918, to coal loaders and carmen have been cancelled for the purpose of the re-issue of notices, and will he say what that means?
§ Sir A. GEDDESI cannot say. I have not seen the actual notice. The facts are as I have stated in the reply which I have already given.