HC Deb 23 November 1939 vol 353 cc1372-3
14. Mr. Kennedy

asked the Minister of Labour how far university students are allowed to finish their courses without interruption for the purpose of military training; and whether he has considered a widespread desire that all students who are in the middle of their arts course should get the benefit of the list of reserved occupations?

Mr. E. Brown

Technical committees attached to University Joint Recruiting Boards are empowered to recommend in suitable cases that students who have reached a sufficiently advanced stage in their study of certain specified subjects of a scientific or technical nature should be employed on scientific or technical work either in the armed Forces or in industry or should complete their course of study before engaging in such work. As regards postponement on account of exceptional hardship, students of any university can on this ground apply individually for postponement of their liability to be called up for service. Steps are being taken to bring test cases of students before the Umpire, who is the final authority, and the principles laid down in his decisions will be made public.

Mr. R. Gibson

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he will be in a position to make a statement in regard to the Arts-Divinity students?

Mr. Brown

I think very soon.