HC Deb 06 May 1920 vol 128 cc2386-8
Mr. BILLING

As the Food Controller is present I gave him notice during the recent Debate that I proposed to raise a question on the Adjournment. I would ask him to take this opportunity of clearing up a question in connection with his Department which has troubled some of us not a little. I happen to know for a fact that there are employed in his Department men drawing substantial salaries, some of £500 per year, of military age, who claimed exemption during the War as owners of one-man businesses, and who, in their endeavour to secure that exemption, accepted posts in the Food Control Department in a voluntary capacity and who put that forward as a reason why their exemption should be confirmed by the tribunals. I could particularise. They are in positions which should be occupied by men who have served, and not men who took the opportunity of using a voluntary position in the Ministry in the time of war to evade service and have retained their position subsequent to the War. May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he will take this opportunity of telling the House that if any cases—

Notice taken that 40 Members were not present: House counted, and 40 Members not being present,

The House was adjourned at eight minutes after Eleven of the Clock till To-morrow.