HC Deb 30 May 1940 vol 361 cc632-3
12. Sir J. Smedley Crooke

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour whether, in view of the disparity in the rate of pay of His Majesty's Forces and that of the wages of conscientious objectors who are placed in work by tribunals, he will again consider the advisability of taking steps to amend the law so as to provide that the rate of pay for such work done shall not be higher than the pay and allowances of those serving in His Majesty's Forces?

Mr. Assheton

This matter has again been considered and I have nothing to add to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend so recently as Tuesday last.

Sir J. Smedley Crooke

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is great indignation all over the country on this matter, and is he aware that conscientious objectors are getting work at £5 or £6 a week while brave soldiers are going through hell at 2s. a day?

Mr. Assheton

My hon. Friend will not forget that this matter was debated and considered by Parliament, and that the Minister is acting on the instructions which he received from Parliament.

Commander Locker-Lampson

Could not some conscientious objectors be invited to work on the land?

Mr. Assheton

Yes, Sir. Some are being directed to work on the land.