HC Deb 08 April 1941 vol 370 cc1386-7
2. Mr. Lyons

asked the Secretary for Mines the approximate number of coal-miners who have joined the Services, after deducting the numbers who have been released to return to the mines, to date?

Mr. Grenfell

Since July, 1939, about 62,000 insured workers in the coal-mining industry, including Territorials, have joined His Majesty's Forces either voluntarily or under the Acts. Exact information as to the number that have been released is not available, but I understand that it has been comparatively small.

Mr. Lyons

Is the calling-up of coal-miners a matter in which the hon. Gentleman is consulted, and is the age of reservation fixed by the Minister of Labour, or is the Minister of Mines taken into consultation?

Mr. Grenfell

There have been consultations, but I am not responsible for policy in this matter.