HC Deb 26 March 1942 vol 378 c2121
5. Sir Irving Albery

asked the Minister of Labour, on what grounds he has permitted a crane-driver in the North Kent district to be stood off his work while younger men of military age were continued in employment?

Mr. Bevin

Owing to a falling-off in the need for crane drivers in his employer's establishment, this man, with another, was offered labouring work but refused to take it. The men retained on work as crane drivers are all senior to him, and the firm have not applied for deferment of the calling-up of any of their crane drivers. I am making arrangements for the transfer of the man concerned to other employment.

Sir I. Albery

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, with the connivance of his Department, this man has been unemployed for several weeks and drawing wages, and are instances of that kind in the national interest as a contribution to the war effort?

Mr. Bevin

I cannot accept that it is with the connivance of my Department. Difficulties do arise sometimes in these cases, as the hon. Gentleman knows.

Sir I. Albery

If the right hon. Gentleman's Department has been aware of this case for several weeks, may I ask what action he has taken or is taking?

Mr. Bevin

I have no further information than I have already given in the Answer.

Sir I. Albery

I beg to give notice that at an early opportunity I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.