§ 1. Mr. CLOUGHasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware of the very large number of men who are urgently needed in all parts of the world to fill the posts which they gave up temporarily to come home and fight, and who yet cannot return owing to the failure of the authorities to provide the promised shipping for them even after the lapse of a reasonable period of time; whether this delay is prejudicing our trade prospects; and whether he will use his influence to expedite their return?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND(Department of Overseas Trade): I am fully aware of the importance and urgency of the matter to which the hon. Member refers. It has been engaging my attention, and every effort is being made, with the co-operation of the Ministry of Shipping and the War Office, to secure passages for these men us speedily as possible.