HC Deb 09 July 1940 vol 362 cc1084-5
65. Sir George Broadbridge

asked the Minister of Labour how it arises that large numbers of young men, medically examined, some as long ago as last December, and found to be Grade I, are still waiting to be called up?

Mr. Assheton

Under current arrangements single men are normally called up for the Army within two months or less of the date of medical examination. The interval may be longer in the case of married men and of men accepted for service in the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines or the Royal Air Force, and considerably longer in the case of men who are earmarked to be called up only to fill vacancies for tradesmen. The longer delay in the latter services is due to the fact that whereas it is essential to have available for these Services an adequate supply of men of the requisite qualifications and ages, the rate of intake, which determines the interval between medical examination and posting, must depend upon the actual requirements of the Services from time to time. If the hon. Baronet is aware of cases in which, in the light of this explanation, delay in calling up still seems unnecessarily long and would care to forward particulars to me I shall be glad to make inquiries into them.

Mr. Loftus

Is the Minister aware that there are many hundreds of young men in my district who do not come under the categories named, but who are anxious to he called up? Is he further aware that these men registered many months ago and that they are now waiting to be called up? Is there no check to check these men over?

Mr. Speaker

I am afraid that that is another question altogether.