HC Deb 14 December 1943 vol 395 cc1378-9
36. Sir Henry Morris-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for War whether members of the Pioneer Corps and the R.E.'s, who were called to certain docks in the week ended 6th November last, in the course of a dockers' strike, to unload certain cargoes, received any extra pay for the work; whether any of the men were injured; and whether any special recognition was given to the non-commissioned officers who volunteered to operate the cranes?

Sir J. Grigg

I much regret that five men were injured while doing this vital work. They were on military duty, and the answer to the first and third parts of my hon. Friend's Question is "No, Sir."

Sir H. Morris-Jones

Is it not a fact that some of these non-commissioned officers volunteered for the work, although they had no previous experience of it, and that some of them were injured? Does my right hon. Friend think it is right that they should be treated less favourably than the highly-trained section of the population who understand those working conditions?

Sir J. Grigg

I think it is the business of the Army to do anything they are asked to do which is essential to the war effort, and particularly the military part of it. The unloading of those stores was an integral part of the military effort.

Sir H. Morris-Jones

Will not my right hon. Friend reconsider his attitude in this particular instance, in view of the very useful service that was rendered?

Sir J. Grigg

I am very well aware that the Army renders extremely useful service in this direction and in a great many others. That does not alter the fact that the men were detailed to do it as a military duty.