HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 c2059
4. Mr. Ballenger

asked the Minister of Labour how many ex-officers are on the books of the Central Registry awaiting suitable appointments; and will he give a tabulated statement in HANSARD showing the numbers by service, ranks and age.

Mr. Bevin

I regret that the available statistics do not enable me to give the information required by my hon. Friend. I am considering whether information of this kind could be conveniently recorded in future.

Mr. Ballenger

Could not my right hon. Friend make further inquiries, because my information is that a considerable number of ex-officers, especially senior officers, are now being retired from the Army, and are waiting on his books, with very little hope of getting suitable employment?

Mr. Bevin

Yes, Sir, but the hon. Gentleman has asked me for precise information, and I have said that it is not being kept in that form. I think I have met my hon. Friend in saying that I am considering whether the information can be kept in a form which will satisfy him in future.