HC Deb 09 June 1942 vol 380 c897
18. Mr. Price

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the importance of the construction of military roads for the successful prosecution of the war in the Middle and Far East; any steps have yet been taken to set up an organisation similar to the Todt organisation used by the German Army?

Sir J. Grigg

A military organisation for constructional work in the Middle East has existed for some time, and the fullest use is made of local labour. It is not within my power to conscript or employ civilian labour under conditions similar to those of the Todt organisation, which is a civilian organisation employing mobile civilian labour under quasi-military discipline.

Mr. Price

Are the civilians employed at all; and do they work with those of our men who are under military discipline, in the same organisation?

Sir J. Grigg

I imagine so, because, as I said in my answer, the fullest use is made of local labour. That would not be conscripted labour or military labour.

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