§ Mr. R. Gibson (by Private Notice)asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that in spite of the official statement from his Department, issued through the Press on Saturday, 27th May, that undergraduates now at the universities or university colleges who are affected by the Military Training Act would be permitted to postpone their liability to be called up for military training until not later than a month after the conclusion of their 32 course of studies as approved by the university, and that forms for postponement would be obtainable at the time of registration, such forms for postponement were, on Saturday, 3rd June, refused to students signing the register of conscientious objectors though issued to students signing the military training register; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThe persons affected by this question would be those to be conditionally registered under Section 3 (7) (b) of the Act. The date from which this registration takes effect is fixed by order of the local or appellate tribunal. My right hon. Friend is considering whether under the Act and the powers given by the Act this point can be met.
§ Mr. GibsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very widespread feeling, not confined to those who opposed the Bill, that there has been in this matter very decided unfairness arising in this way: that in Scotland during this month there are degree examinations, and in view of these proceedings students who have signed the register of conscientious objectors are put in a very serious difficulty and are not able to concentrate on their work for the degree examinations; and will he urge his right hon. Friend to reconsider this matter so as to put all students on the same basis?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI do not accept the contention of the hon. and learned Gentleman. I think that my answer is quite satisfactory. We are looking into the matter to see whether we can meet the point.
§ Mr. GibsonWhen may we expect a decision?