HC Deb 02 August 1944 vol 402 cc1379-80
45. Sir Ralph Glyn

asked the Prime Minister whether he is yet in a position to make any statement in regard to the continuation of national service in some form after the cessation of hostilities, in view of the fact that such knowledge would materially assist in the re-settlement of Service personnel and enable men who have been in reserved occupations but are of military age to make their contribution of active service in the Armies of Occupation, thus permitting men who have now served for long periods to return to civil life when the exigencies of the war render such a course possible.

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answers which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Bassetlaw (Mr. Bellenger) on 23rd February and 25th July last.

Mr. Bellenger

At what time in the present hostilities, or after the cessation of those hostilities, will the Government make a statement of their intentions for the continuance or otherwise of National Service, which is repugnant to many people in this country?

Mr. Attlee

It is premature to make a statement now. I cannot prophesy.