HC Deb 23 September 1943 vol 392 c362
17. Sir R. Clarry

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the widespread resentment felt against a certain type of young woman married to serving officers in this country who are without any domestic ties or family responsibilities who are at the present moment occupying accommodation at the hotels adjacent to their husbands and who avoid calling-up and do not undertake any useful war work; and what steps he proposes to take to follow up and utilise this potential labour?

Mr. Bevin

I am aware that there has been criticism regarding cases of the kind described, but special inquiries which were made last year did not disclose that any substantial number of women were avoiding their obligations in that way. Existing instructions provide that a woman found to be living away from home with her husband should be considered for employment in the area in which she is living.

Sir R. Clarry

Is it possible to get the co-operation of commanding officers through their officers as to the location of their wives?

Mr. Bevin

I would ask the hon. Member not to impose any more difficulties on us.