HC Deb 02 July 1942 vol 381 cc479-80
6. Lieutenant Butcher

asked the Minister of Labour for what reason a boot repairer carrying on business in Boston, Lincolnshire, was directed by him early in April to report for work on boot repairs at a factory in Nottingham; whether he is aware as a result of this direction he was compelled to close his shop and that he has since been discharged?

Mr. Bevin

I am having inquiries made and will communicate with my hon. and gallant Friend.

Lieutenant Butcher

While I thank my right hon. Friend, will he take steps to see that increased demands for labour are met by the training of new entrants and the up-grading of less skilled workers, and not by the transference of skilled labour in circumstances which cause great hardship?

Mr. Bevin

That all depends what the order of priority is. I cannot accept a rigid rule on this matter. If there is a sudden priority order which involves moving business men or anyone else, I must satisfy the requirements at a given moment.