6. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALLasked the Minister of Labour the reason for the recent discharge of temporary ex-service men from the Minister of Labour claims and records office; what was the reason for such short notice to the staff representatives of such impending discharges; whether any further discharges are contemplated; if so, when; and will he give an assurance that longer notice will be given to the representatives of the men concerned?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONThese discharges are due to a reduction in the volume of work. There was no avoidable delay in informing the staff representatives. I cannot yet say whether any further reductions will be necessary beyond those of which notice has already been given.
Sir F. HALLDoes not the right hon. Gentleman realise how unfair it is to these ex-service men that new entrants should be engaged when there are available properly qualified men who comply with the regulations which have been laid down; and will his Department utilise the services of as many ex-service men as they possibly can?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONYes, Sir, that has always been the policy of the Ministry of Labour. The first part of the supplementary question does not refer to the question on the Paper. In the interests of the men themselves, I will do the utmost I can to see that they have the longest possible notice given to them when their services are no longer required.