§ 31. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that A. H. Gleave was dismissed from his employment by R. Fulding and Son, builders, of Blackpool, after the manager of the firm had inquired as to his attitude to military training; whether he is aware that H. 2472 Leggatt, of Leyton, was informed at the employment exchange that he was liable to suspension of benefit because he had refused, on conscientious grounds, an offer of work as an engineer at Woolwich Arsenal; what action he is taking to see that such men receive unemployment benefit, and are not penalised twice because of their convictions; and whether he will take steps to make it clear that the growing practice of victimisation and persecution by employers is not in the best interests of this country?
§ Mr. E. BrownI will make inquiry into these cases so far as regards any action alleged to have been taken by my Department. If a claim to unemployment benefit is made the hon. Member knows that it will be decided by the statutory authorities and is not under my control. As regards the last part of the question, I have had one or two letters on this subject, and I am looking into them.
§ Mr. SorensenIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the practice of victimising employés for their conscientious convictions is growing, and, in view of the fact that very strong opinions upon this subject are by no means confined to this quarter of the House, will he make a public statement to the effect that this persecution should stop?
§ Mr. BrownI am sure that it would not be the desire of the country that any such cases should happen.