HC Deb 08 February 1944 vol 396 cc1616-8
38. Mr. Fraser

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many applications for release from the Forces for coalmining he has received since the present scheme for comb-out was announced; how many he has recommended to the War Office; and how many have since been released.

Major Lloyd George

I regret that the information asked for in the first part of the Question is not readily available but up to 1st February, 1944, 4,789 applications for the release of ex-underground workers were sent to the War Office under the present comb-out arrangements. The results are as follows:

On release at 1st February, 1944 2,448
Released and subsequently recalled 75
Rejected by the War Office 1,416
Under consideration by the War Office at 1st February, 1944 850

Mr. Fraser

Is the Minister satisfied that he is getting the number of ex-miners to return that he anticipated when he made the announcement five or six months ago?

Major Lloyd George

Yes, Sir; in view of the limitations then imposed I am satisfied.

Mr. Bowles

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that since the Prime Minister and I discussed this matter across the Floor last week I have had 65 applications? Is there any truth in the statement in a good deal of the national Press yesterday that ex-miners were to have the chance of going back to the pits if they chose?

Major Lloyd George

There is no change in the position as laid down in this reply.

Mr. Bowles

Then the statements in the Press yesterday were not true?

Major Lloyd George

I am not responsible for the statements in the Press.

Mr. J. J. Lawson

Can the Minister give any indication why 1,400 were refused release?

Major Lloyd George

I cannot give the details, but in some cases the reason would be age limitation, or because they were key men. There are many reasons which I can give the hon. Gentleman if he will give me time.

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