HC Deb 15 March 1944 vol 398 cc238-9
48. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Prime Minister whether he will now consider releasing miners from the services to that they may both produce more coal and also enlighten their comrades in the mines as to conditions in the services and their attitude towards unofficial strikes.

The Prime Minister

Decisions as to the release of ex-miners from the Forces were taken some time ago, and releases are continuing in accordance with the arrangements described by my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power in a statement he made on 22nd February. Releases under these arrangements began on 17th November, 1943, and up to 6th March some 3,160 men had gone back to the mines from the Army. There will be some further releases from the Navy and the Royal Air Force within the categories already eligible. It is not intended to broaden these categories of release at the present time.

Sir T. Moore

In view of the rather parlous situation at the moment, does not my right hon. Friend think that this process of release should be expedited?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir, I think there are many competing claims.