HC Deb 20 May 1919 vol 116 cc169-70
32. Mr. MARRIOTT

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the fact that men indispensable to the building trade at home are being retained in the Army, with the result that important building schemes are being held up or retarded; and whether he will give orders for the immediate release of such men?

Captain GUEST

I regret that I have nothing to add to the answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for Elland on the 8th instant to the effect that Army Order 55, of 1919, governs the eligibility of all men for demobilisation, and that it is regretted that, at the present time, no special steps can be taken to release men engaged in the building trade who are not eligible for demobilisation under that Army Order.

Mr. MARRIOTT

Then it is the case that these people are being retained?

Captain GUEST

This trade has not been singled out to be retained as against any other trade. The same Regulations govern all sections of the community.