§ 1. Major Yorkasked the Minister of Labour whether he will reconsider the position of small builders who, because of war conditions, were forced to close their business and who subsequently became liable for direction under D.R. 58A; and whether he can now allow them to leave their present employment in order to reopen their business.
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Bevin)I could not give any general undertaking to do this, as so much depends on the circumstances of individual cases, but in appropriate cases I would certainly meet such requests so far as that can be done without detriment to the national interest.
§ Major YorkWill the right hon. Gentleman release builders, of the kind referred to in the Question, who have been directed from the North to London, as soon as circumstances in London allow?