HC Deb 14 March 1940 vol 358 c1338
19. Mr. Hannah

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that many young men are being kept from getting work by the prospect of being called up, but that in many cases such an event is months ahead; and will he take steps usefully to employ them in the meantime?

Mr. E. Brown

I am aware that some young men find difficulty in obtaining employment while awaiting enlistment in the Forces, but my information does not lead me to suppose that any considerable number are affected in this way. Special arrangements are in operation to enable any unemployed man who has registered for military service to be called up as early as possible if he so desires. Men liable for service who have not yet registered, and who are not covered by the Schedule of Reserved Occupations, can, of course, volunteer for immediate enlistment.

Mr. Hannah

If I bring some cases to the attention of the right hon. Gentleman, is it possible for him to deal with them?

Mr. Brown

I shall be glad to look into them and discuss the matter with my hon. Friend.

Mr. R. C. Morrison

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are young men who were registered for the Navy as long ago as October last who are still hanging about and becoming more and more demoralised because they have not been called up?

Mr. Brown

There is always a difficulty, of course, in doing our best to meet the desires of men to join one particular Service and calling them up.