HC Deb 09 November 1921 vol 148 cc368-9
19. Captain BOWYER

asked the Minister of Labour if the Appointments Department and the Military Service Civil Liabilities Department are to continue to look after ex-service men; and what is his policy as regards these Departments in the future?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Of course, so long as our obligation to the ex-service men remains unrequited, we shall require machinery in order that it may be accomplished. But, again, of course, the expenditure upon official machinery must depend upon the volume of work to be accomplished; and it is certainly not prejudicial to the interests of the ex-service man to economise as closely as possible, on purely official administrative expenditure. I cannot say at the present time when it may be possible, in view of the interests involved, to dispense altogether with the machinery of the Appointments Branch or of the Civil Liabilities Department.

Captain BOWYER

May we take it that these two Departments will continue, as long as there is any need for them, on behalf of ex-service men?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Yes, certainly.

Colonel Sir C. YATE

Will the machinery of these Departments be extended to men disabled in Ireland?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I have to carry out the Regulations.

Sir C. YATE

Cannot you alter the Regulations?