§ 33. Major Kimballasked the Secretary of State for War whether the War Department will re-employ Mr. A. A. Saffell, of 102, High Street, Castle Donington, Leicestershire, whose appeal against his dismissal from the Ordnance Depot at Chilwell, in March, 1942, after over three years employment, was allowed by the Substituted Appeal Board held at the War Office on 10th April, 1942; and will he be paid any compensation for loss of earnings during the period he has been unemployed since his wrongful dismissal?
§ Sir J. GriggThe case of Mr. Saffell has received full and careful consideration. I cannot agree that his dismissal can be described as in any way a wrongful dismissal, and I am accordingly unable to give directions that he should be reinstated.
§ Major KimballDoes my right hon. Frined's answer mean that the Essential Work Order does not apply against the War Department although it may apply against an employee of the War Department, and that if the employee is dismissed the War Department do not have to reinstate him?
§ Sir J. GriggNo, Sir, but that is another question, and if my hon. and gallant Friend wants a full answer to it, perhaps he will put down a Question.
§ Mr. William BrownDid not the National Service officer, in the case referred to, decide that the War Office should reinstate the man?
§ Sir J. GriggNo, Sir, I do not think so. There was an appeal to a referee or a tribunal, or whatever it was. There is a Question down to the Minister of Labour for a later time, in which the point is being raised.
§ Major KimballIs not my right hon. Friend aware that the appeal against dismissal was heard by a substitute appeal board, held at the War Office on 10th April, and that it allowed the appeal, but that the Department has not reinstated the man?
§ Sir J. GriggYes, Sir, I am aware of all the facts. I have been into the case very carefully.
§ Sir Herbert WilliamsIn view of that position, what is the purpose of the appeal board if no notice is taken of it?