§ 52. Sir W. DAVISONasked the Minister of Labour whether steps will be taken forthwith to withdraw the instructions now in force with regard to the conduct of officers of the Ministry in Employment Exchanges, which lay down that such officers shall in no circumstances volunteer information or suggest to applicants for work the desirability of enlisting in His Majesty's Forces, in view of the implied slur cast on His Majesty's Forces and of the desirability of men without a job being informed of the advantages of a career in the armed forces of the Crown?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead)This instruction casts no slur on His Majesty's Forces, as is obvious from the fact that recruiting posters are exhibited at the Employment Exchanges and assistance is given there to men seeking information as to service in the Forces. The question of recruiting in all its aspects is, however, being carefully considered.
§ Sir W. DAVISONIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware of the recent public statement made by the Prime Minister that there is no more manly or honourable career than service in the Army, and does he not consider it desirable that these instructions should be withdrawn?