HC Deb 03 February 1942 vol 377 cc1039-40
39. Mr. Messer

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the feelings of disquiet being aroused by the passing of physically unfit men for service in the Army; whether there is any minimum standard; and what is the method adopted in arriving at it?

Mr. Tomlinson

While cases of physical or mental unfitness cannot invariably be detected, the medical boards do not, in general, pass men who are unfit for service, and I am not aware of any grounds for disquiet. The standards applied and the methods employed by the boards are contained in a Code of instructions agreed with the Service Departments and approved by the Medical Advisory Committee. I am having a copy of this Code in its latest form placed in the Library.

Mr. Messer

Would it not be advisable for men who claim to be unfit for service to have the right to go before an independant medical tribunal, for there are undoubtedly cases of great hardship?

Mr. Tomlinson

I will put that matter to my right hon. Friend.