§ 10. Wing-Commander Jamesasked the Minister of Labour whether any guidance has been given to man-power and hardship committees upon making allowance for the effect upon local needs and services, as well as upon the position of individuals, in considering exemption from and postponement of calling up persons for military and industrial service; and whether he will reconsider the position, particularly having regard to the needs of the smaller communities?
§ Mr. BevinMilitary service hardship committees determine applications for postponement on grounds of exceptional hardship in accordance with the principles laid down in the National Service (Postponement Certificates) Regulations, as interpreted by the umpire. Both the committees and the umpire are independent judicial authorities, and it would be improper for me to give them guidance as to the circumstances in which postponement should be granted. Applications for deferment of calling-up, based on the importance of the work upon which the individual is engaged, are dealt with by the district manpower boards and the local offices of my Department, who consider the importance of the work in relation to the war effort or the supply of essential services for the community. Adequate guidance has been given to the officers concerned.
§ Wing-Commander JamesIs my right hon. Friend aware that most Members are increasingly having cases brought to their notice in which local needs appear to be overlooked and all the emphasis is placed upon the needs of individuals? Should not community needs also be served?