HC Deb 03 February 1942 vol 377 c1027
10. Mr. R. J. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the case of James Young, of Bedlington, who stated at Blyth County Court that, while he was unable to secure work on account of injuries to his hands, he was called up for the Army and passed by the medical board Grade 1; that on entering the forces he was re-examined and re-graded Class C, put to light fatigue duties, never had a drill or handled a rifle, and six months later was discharged as unfit for any form of military service; and what steps he proposes to take to prevent a repetition of such cases?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Tomlinson)

I have been asked to reply. Inquiries are being made, and I will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.

Mr. Taylor

Is my hon. Friend aware that cases of this description discourage confidence in medical boards, and will he take steps to deal with the members of the medical board who passed this man into the Army, if on inquiry the facts stated in my Question are substantiated?

Mr. Tomlinson

I will see that these suggestions are taken into consideration.

Mr. Rhys Davies

Has my hon. Friend or his chief ever considered the considerable percentage of men discharged from the Forces who have been passed by medical boards, when obviously they have been unfit for the Fighting Services?

Mr. Tomlinson

Not in a specific form.