§ 1. Mr. Ness Edwardsasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that men called for medical examination at Newport, Monmouthshire, prior to being conscripted for the R.E.M.E. were refused Form N.S. 13, and were informed by the representatives of his Department that conscripts for the R.E.M.E. were not entitled to the provisions of the National Service (Armed Forces) Act; and whether this was with his authority?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. McCorquodale)Men summoned for interview and medical examination under the Specified Classes of Persons (Registration) Order are entitled to apply immediately for postponement of their call-up in the usual way immediately after medical examination, but it is explained to them that it is not generally in their interest to do so at that time. They may not be called up until after a considerable interval, if at all, and a decision given previously against postponement could not be altered afterwards in the event of new circumstances arising. It is, therefore, in their interest to await the opportunity of putting in such an application, which will be given to them later on if it is decided to call them up. I understand that the position was explained to the men at Newport, but as they appeared to be doubtful as to their position, postponement application forms N.S.13 were given to them.
§ Mr. EdwardsIs not the hon. Gentleman aware that the form N.S.13 was refused to these men and that in one case in particular was granted only after an application by a Member of this House? 1754 Will he see that representatives of the Department state to the men their rights under the main Act when they are before a medical board?
§ Mr. McCorquodaleYes, Sir. I think the instructions concerning the explanation to be given in this case were not as clear as they might have been, and I am looking into them.