HC Deb 07 December 1944 vol 406 cc704-5
22. Sir John Mellor

asked the Minister of Labour how many men he estimates will be restricted to making engagements through his Ministry or approved agencies under the Control of Engagement Order, proposed in Cmd. 6568, whose engagements are not so restricted under existing Orders; and whether he will exempt professional, clerical and domestic workers from restriction at least to the extent to which they now enjoy exemption.

Mr. Bevin

It is not at present possible to give an estimate of the numbers involved since the question of exceptions to the proposed Order is under consideration.

Sir J. Mellor

Under these proposals will not almost all black-coated male workers between the ages of 18 and 50 be restricted, for the first time, to obtaining employment through the Ministry?

Mr. Bevin

Very large numbers will. Until we get out of the man-power problem of this war, I am afraid it will be inevitable.

Sir J. Mellor

Is not that inconsistent with the declared policy of the Government to narrow the field of compulsion after the end of the war with Germany?

Mr. Bevin

Oh, no, Sir. At present they are under direction right up to the age of 65.