HC Deb 25 April 1944 vol 399 cc616-7
39. Sir A. Southby

asked the Secretary of State for War, whether he will take steps to convey to the military personnel who have carried out the duties of those transport workers who have elected to go on strike at a time of great national anxiety the sincere gratitude of the public whose requirements have been guaranteed by their courteous service.

Sir J. Grigg

While thanking my hon. and gallant Friend for the terms of his Question, I hope he will agree with me that it would hardly be appropriate to single out these troops from the rest of the Army for special commendation.

Sir A. Southby

Can my right hon. Friend say whether it is not the view of the officers and men of the army that these transport and other workers who have gone out on strike, regardless alike of the nation's necessities and the instructions of their own union officials, have done more to help the enemy than any "fifth columnist" paid by Hitler?

Mr. W. J. Brown

Are we to understand that the use of troops as strike breakers is the policy of the War Office?

Mr. Shinwell

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that for their services, these men are automatically granted the vote?