HC Deb 15 May 1941 vol 371 c1234
6. Captain Lyons

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can give the approximate respective numbers of male persons between the ages of 19 and 34, and 35 to 40, inclusive, not engaged in work of national effort and not reserved?

Mr. Bevin

I regret that it is not possible to give the information asked for by my hon. and gallant Friend.

Captain Lyons

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there is a good deal of public uneasiness about the great waste of man-power and woman-power which might well be made available for war services, and will he keep that constantly in mind when he reviews the situation?

Mr. Bevin

If there is uneasiness in the public mind, I think it is due to uninformed and irresponsible Press criticism.

Captain Lyons

Is it not a fact that many thousands of people have tried to get war work and have been put off time and time again, and is it not also a fact that there are large numbers of both men and women who could be usefully employed?

Mr. Bevin

I do not accept that statement at all.