HC Deb 03 November 1943 vol 393 cc668-9
68. Dr. Russell Thomas

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport the percentage of the number employed by the London Passenger Transport Board on 1st June, 1942, of male workers of military age, excluding drivers, who have since that date been directed into the military, naval and air services?

Mr. Noel-Baker

If I am right in assuming that my hon. Friend desires to know what percentage of the male workers, other than drivers, who were employed by the London Passenger Transport Board on 1st June, 1942, have, since that date, enlisted in the Armed Forces of the Crown, then the answer is 12. If, however, I have not understood what it is that my hon. Friend desires to know, and if he will put down another Question, I will be happy to give him all the information I may have.

Dr. Thomas

I am perfectly satisfied with the answer, but is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are 11,000 men of military age who are not drivers and who still remain with this body; and would he reconsider Government policy in regard to this matter, especially in view of the fact that boys are to be ordered to the pits and women of 50 taken from their homes?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Perhaps my hon. Friend is aware that pressure on transport personnel and services is already very great, and that we are seeking by all means to increase the man-power available.

Mr. Evelyn Walkden

Is it not the case that a large number of these men are ex-service men of over 50 years of age?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Many of them are ex-service men, and many of them are men of a low medical category.