HC Deb 30 May 1940 vol 361 cc630-2
2. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour whether he is aware that the trade unions have spent money and time in try- ing to assist in the best utilisation of the services of skilled and semi-skilled engineers; that they are disappointed at the results achieved in regard to the release of urgently-required men from the Armed Forces, many of whom could be employed for the purpose of training others for special operations; that there are hundreds of engineers in infantry regiments and technical units who in many cases are employed in picking up paper, peeling potatoes, and acting as batmen or cooks; and what steps does he propose to take to get these engineers, of whom he has particulars, back into industry?

Mr. Assheton

I am aware that valuable assistance has been given by certain trade unions in this matter. As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, a very substantial number of men have already been released from the Forces for work in industry and the question of there lease of other men is constantly under consideration. In spite of great difficulties I am satisfied that the Service Departments are taking appropriate action to ensure that, so far as possible, proper use is made of the industrial skill of engineers and others who are members of the Forces.

Mr. E. Smith

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that that appropriate action is not showing any concrete results, and that I have here a letter from one of the largest trade unions involved which expresses disappointment at the result? If I hand this letter to the hon. Gentleman, will he make full investigations into the matter in order that the position may be improved?

Mr. Assheton

I should be only too happy to make the fullest investigation into any cases referred to in the letter, but I do hope it will not be thought that nothing has been done in this matter.

Sir Percy Harris

Can the hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that there is direct and intimate contact between the Ministry of Labour and the Service Departments on this matter?

Mr. Assheton

Yes, Sir. There is constant contact between ourselves and the Service Departments interested, on these matters.

Mr. Batey

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this letter says that fewer than 50 men, skilled engineers, have been released?

Mr. Assheton

As I have not yet had an opportunity of considering the letter, I cannot deal with it at the moment.

Mr. G. Strauss

Approximately how many men have been released altogether?

Mr. Assheton

The last time the Secretary of State gave an answer to such a question, he said that it was the equivalent of two divisions.

Mr. Cocks

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that out of 3,000 special cases put forward by an important union during six months, only 12 have been released?

Mr. Assheton

I am not aware of that case.