HC Deb 11 May 1939 vol 347 c662
14. Mr. Arthur Henderson

asked the Minister of Labour whether in view of the approach of the Long Vacation, he can give any indication as to when University undergraduates are to be called upon to undergo their military training?

Mr. E. Brown

I am not yet in a position to make any statement on this subject beyond saying that owing to the necessary preliminary steps by way of registration and medical inspection it will not be possible to issue calling up notices so as to require Militiamen to attend for military training before the end of June at the earliest.

Mr. Henderson

Is not the Minister aware that the Long Vacation commences about the middle of June, and that there may be a serious effect upon these undergraduates who make an effort to attend vacation courses?

Mr. Brown

There is a number of complicated questions in this matter, and I am seeing the Vice-Chancellors of the Universities and all the Members of Parliament representing the Universities on this subject.

Mr. David Grenfell

Will the Government consider finding some more appropriate name for these people in military service than the term "Militiamen?"