HC Deb 09 December 1943 vol 395 cc1105-6
3. Mr. Quintin Hogg

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the conduct of Messrs. Henry Head and Company, Lloyds insurance brokers, in endeavouring to induce employees in the Forces to accept lump sums in lieu of quarterly allowances and, where these employees have refused to accept such offers except without prejudice to their rights of reinstatement under the National Service Acts, to withdraw any allowance paid; and whether he will make it plain that any similar attempt to evade obligation under the National Service Acts will be resisted by his Department?

Mr. Bevin

I will certainly take any action that may be open to me to deal with any attempt on the part of employers to evade their obligations under the National Service Acts. My attention was drawn to the action by Messrs. Head and Company in a particular case, but I see nothing in what transpired which should affect any statutory right of reinstatement.

Mr. Hogg

Would my right hon. Friend consider bringing the facts of this case to the attention of Lloyd's Committee with a view of disciplinary action against the firm?

Mr. Bevin

I would like to consider that.