HC Deb 26 March 1942 vol 378 cc2122-3
8. Mr. Beechman

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will arrange for free railway warrants to be issued to persons directed into work at a distance from their homes on the same lines as those now issued to members of the Fighting Services?

Mr. Bevin

I would refer my hon. Friend to the Reply I gave on i9th March to the hon. Member for Hanley (Mr. A. Hollins).

Mr. Beechman

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that many workers are compelled by the Government to work far away from their homes, and would they not do all the better at their work if they knew that they could occasionally be helped to go on leave to visit their parents?

Mr. Bevin

The Reply referred to indicated that I was reviewing the whole matter, but in considering it I have to bear in mind the tremendously vexed problem of transport, and to keep a balance between the capacity for carrying people and encouraging them to travel. I am trying to do my best to work it out.

Sir Herbert Williams

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider this matter in relation to the problem of absenteeism, and make it a reward for good attendance?

Mr. Bevin

That might be applied to this House.