HC Deb 02 March 1944 vol 397 cc1549-50
3. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Labour the number of employers who have refused to carry out the instructions of National Service officers to reinstate workmen in employment though paying them wages; and how many such employers have been prosecuted for such refusal.

Mr. Bevin

There have been a few cases of this kind but I regret that my statistical information does not enable me to give precise figures.

Mr. Davies

As it would be very interesting if these figures were given, could the right hon. Gentleman not set them out in the OFFICIAL REPORT?

Mr. Bevin

I must keep down the work on the staff. To send out a questionnaire again, asking for statistical returns on this matter, when we are so short of staff, would be, I think, really unnecessary.

Mr. Tinker

Is there no other way in which this matter can be dealt with?

5. Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Mr. J. McEwen, Glen Owen, Desford, Leicester, was dismissed from his employment by Messrs. Tube Products, Limited, in November, 1942; that the National Service officer decided the man must be reinstated; that the employers refused; that the firm was prosecuted and fined; that reinstatement was offered on unacceptable conditions both to the man and his trade union; that, on the employers' appeal, the National Service officer decided the man could be discharged, so Mr. McEwen has been unemployed since November, 1942; and what steps he is taking to secure him employment.

Mr. Bevin

I wrote to my hon. Friend on 16th February with regard to this case. With regard to the last part of the Question, I am having inquiries made.

Mr. Davies

Does the Minister not think that the Essential Work Order in this case has been very one-sided against the man, and that it is a disgrace that he has been unemployed since November, 1942?

Mr. Bevin

I do not want to go into the merits of the case across the Floor of the House. I do not think that it has been unjust.