§ 21. Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Minister of Aircraft Production how many men of military age are employed in his Department; and how many he intends to release for the Services in the near future?
§ Sir S. CrippsSome 4,900 officers below the reservation age for their class are employed in my Department throughout the country, the great majority being technical or professional men whose withdrawal from the service would prejudice the war effort and for whom properly qualified replacements cannot be provided. About 350 more officers are to be released from my Department in the near future.
§ Mr. EdwardsIs the Minister aware that some people in his Department occupying important positions at considerable financial sacrifices have had placed above them young men of military age without any qualifications whatever, who, on a famous occasion, refused to fight for King and country? Will he consider the effect on these men and, if necessary, call a conference of some of his officials?
§ Sir S. CrippsNo, Sir, I am satisfied that the Department is so organised as to produce the maximum of efficiency in the war effort.
§ Mr. EdwardsWhen there are such men as the Director of Propeller Production and the Director of Engine Production who have had no experience whatever before?