HC Deb 16 May 1938 vol 336 cc29-30
57. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Minister of Labour where Wilfred Weaver, of Stainforth, was sent from the Thorne Exchange under the transference scheme; what kind of work or training he was doing when he enlisted in the Army; and why the Exchange officials who returned the boy's insurance cards to his parents refused to state where the boy was stationed?

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Brown)

The necessary inquiries into this case are in progress. I will write to the hon. Member when they are complete.

Mr. Williams

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why inquiries are taking so long, and may I ask how it is that when boys 16 years of age are taken from their homes the Exchange officials return their cards to their parents without any explanation as to their whereabouts?

Mr. Brown

I think the hon, Member had better await the result of my inquiries. From the preliminary inquiry that I have made this seems to be a very interesting case.

Mr. Williams

In the meantime while inquiries are being made will the right hon. Gentleman instruct his Exchange officials that where a boy departs in these circumstances they shall give the parents full information?

Mr. Brown

I am not admitting that the circumstances are as stated in the question. I must complete my inquiries.

Mr. G. Griffiths

Is it not the case that the Army will not release him because they say he has cost so much?