§ 2. Sir Ralph Glynasked the Minister of Labour what is the approximate number of labourers from Eire who have had permits to enter the United Kingdom for work on airfields, camps and other war buildings; what are the conditions of their employment; what restrictions were imposed upon their returning on holiday to Ireland taking what knowledge they have with them; and how many are now employed and at what rates of pay.
§ Mr. BevinIt would not be in the public interest to give the number of workers from Eire who have entered the United Kingdom and the number now engaged on the types of work indicated. The entrance of Eire workers into this country is, however, carefully controlled. The terms and conditions of employment, including rates of pay, are the same as those for other workers in similar employment. As regards return to Ireland the restrictions recently announced now apply to them. Previously, the maximum number of holiday visits permitted to Eire workers was two during a period of twelve months.
§ Mr. McGovernHas the right hon. Gentleman any reason to believe that many of these workers carry back to Ireland information which is used against this country?