HC Deb 08 April 1943 vol 388 cc782-3
6. Mr. Dobbie

asked the Minister of Labour what arrangements are made for youths whose term of apprenticeship is interrupted when they are called up to the Forces; and will there be opportunity either by subsidy or arrangement with employers for these youths to complete their apprenticeship when their term of service with the Forces is completed, or can opportunity be presented while in the Forces to complete such apprenticeship?

Mr. Bevin

Provided that there are vacancies in the Service trades concerned when they are called up, apprentices are posted whenever possible to a branch of the Forces in which they will be able to continue at their trade. In those cases it is contemplated that, subject to appropriate agreements being made with the industries concerned, the experience which the apprentices will have gained will be regarded as part of the apprenticeship. I am in consultation with representatives of the employers' organisations and trade unions concerned on this matter and on the arrangements which may be necessary to enable young people to complete their apprenticeship when discharged from the Forces.