20. Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the Secretary of State for War whether men who are being retained in the Army Service Corps (Mechanical Transport) are being kept employed in overhauling and repairing motor lorries prior to their dismissal; whether many of these men have work awaiting them in the building trade; and whether it is in harmony with the demobilisation scheme that men who are eligible for demobilisation should be retained in the Army on work of this character?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe men of the Royal Army Service Corps (Mechanical Transport) who are being retained are employed solely on the maintenance of such vehicles as are essential to meet the current needs of the Army. I regret I cannot accept the suggestion contained in the latter part of my hon. Friend's question.
§ Lieutenant-Commander KENWORTHYCannot trade union labour be obtained to do this work any longer?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo, Sir. I gather that these men are required for the handling of these lorries on which the Army depends.
Mr. T. WILSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this system is causing a great deal of discontent among civilian workers?