HC Deb 22 July 1943 vol 391 cc1043-4
1. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the difficulty that men and women find themselves in, who desire to return home to Ireland during the shut-down weeks, that there are no bookings available on steamers to Ireland; and, in view of the contribution to the war effort of these people, the need to encourage them and maintain their good-will, will he ask the authorities concerned to organise the munition workers' visits and have steamers placed at their disposal during the short period required?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Tomlinson)

My right hon. Friend appreciates the desire of Irish workers to return home during their holiday period, and steps have been taken to provide a certain easement in the position. I shall be glad if my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of any individual cases of hardship.

Mr. Smith

Will the Parliamentary Secretary bear in mind that the manage- ments concerned are very satisfied with the contributions made by these people in the war effort and that they have taken steps to have them taken even on cargo boats? In view of that, will he see that this matter is treated as one of urgency so as to give as much satisfaction as possible?

Mr. Tomlinson

Yes, Sir.

Colonel Sir A. Lambert Ward

Does the hon. Gentleman think it is advisable that men working on secret weapons and processes should be encouraged to go to Eire for their holidays as long as there is a German Legation in Dublin which is prepared to pay large sums for secret information?

Mr. Tomlinson

That is an entirely different question.