HC Deb 25 February 1941 vol 369 c360
47. Mr. Cary

asked the Prime Minister whether he will reaffirm the undertaking given by the Government in 1939, to those who would be affected by the Military Forces Act, that their jobs in civilian life will be kept open for them after the war; and that no step would be taken which will prejudice the chances of re-employment in their respective trades?

Mr. Attlee

Statutory provision for reinstatement in civil employment after the war already exists in Section 14 of the National Service (Armed Forces) Act, 1939. The practical possibilities of such reinstatement must, however, be affected by industrial changes which the war necessitates.

Mr. Cary

Could something more be done to protect the interests of small businesses? Big undertakings, such as the railways, insurance companies and banks, will be able to carry on, but many of the smaller interests are threatened with extinction.

Mr. Attlee

Obviously, that is a matter which will have to be considered.

Mr. Cary

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that what is left will be spread over as great a number of businesses as possible, and not concentrated in the hands of a few big businesses?

Mr. Attlee

I would like to see that Question on the Paper.