HC Deb 20 October 1942 vol 383 cc1826-7
39. Mr. Silkin

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that workers employed at the Royal Ordnance and other State-owned factories who have successfully appealed to an appeal board against dismissal are refused reinstatement in spite of directions or requests under the Essential Work Order by the National Service officer; and whether this is in accordance with the policy of his Department?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Tomlinson)

Before their establishments are scheduled under the Essential Work Orders, Government Departments agree to reinstate in circumstances where other employers would be under a legal obligation to do so. I should be glad to make inquiries into any individual case my hon. Friend may have in mind.

Mr. Silkin

Is my hon. Friend aware that Government Departments do not regard themselves as under an obligation to reinstate and that there are numerous cases where they have not done so?

Mr. Tomlinson

I am not aware that there are numerous cases, and I will be glad to inquire into them if my hon. Friend will send them along. Surely my hon. Friend knows the difficulty of issuing directions to one's self.

Mr. Silkin

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment at the first opportunity.