HC Deb 09 November 1943 vol 393 cc1075-6
39. Mr. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for War why his Department have issued instructions to the secretary of the Nuffield Forces Club, Wardour Street, London, W.1, that members of the W.L.A. are not to be admitted to the club, as these instructions have been publicly enforced against Land Army girls from Streatham and elsewhere who had previously been welcomed at the club on a number of occasions?

Sir J. Grigg

The demand for the facilities of canteens run for the benefit of members of the Services is such that it is in general impossible to extend these facilities to members of other organisations. An exception has been made in favour of the Women's Land Army in the case of canteens near their work where opportunities for buying refreshments elsewhere are limited. This consideration does not apply to the canteen mentioned by the hon. Member and I regret that no exception to the rule can be made in this case.

Mr. Robertson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these women are working on the outskirts of London where there are no canteen facilities? Is it not reasonable that they should get the same recreational facilities as other women in the Services?

Sir J. Grigg

I understand that this is a question of facilities in Wardour Street. I am not aware of any agricultural operations there nor of any absence of restaurant facilities.