HC Deb 04 February 1943 vol 386 cc1026-7
13. Mr. Davidson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has fully considered the resolution from the Glasgow and District Co-operative Conference Association regarding the calling up of women holding key positions in the society's food shops; and has he any statement to make?

Mr. Bevin

I am making inquiries into the matter raised in the resolution and will communicate with my hon. Friend.

Mr. Davidson

In his inquiries, will my right hon. Friend consider instructing his Departmental officials to make a further scrutiny with regard to women employed in luxury and unnecessary industries before taking away those key women from the food industry?

Mr. Bevin

I shall decide what to do when I have got the results of the inquiries.

Mr. Davidson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that while this inquiry with regard to women employed in the key industry of food distribution is taking place, there are, in London newspapers, advertisements of cabaret shows and other such things which are completely unnecessary, during the war?

Mr. Mathers

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the very widespread feeling among co-operative societies that they are unduly restricted in regard to the keeping of key people for the distribution of food?

Mr. Bevin

I do not think that is true of the Co-operative movement as an organised body. They have been treated well, and the matter has been discussed with them in all its details from time to time.