HC Deb 14 November 1944 vol 404 cc1795-6
59. Mr. Austin Hopkinson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the industrial activities of Messrs. Philip Hill Investment Trust and Philip Hill and Partners, which are of such importance that the Treasury supported the application of Wing-Commander Hubert Meredith for release from the R.A.F., in order to become managing director of the said concerns.

Sir J. Anderson

By agreement with the Ministry of Labour and the Service Departments, applications for the release from the Forces of members of the staff of private concerns on the ground of national interest are considered only if sponsored by a Government Department. The firm in question is concerned with the finances of a number of undertakings which had, before the war, important overseas markets in Europe, South America and the East. In view of the paramount importance of export trade after the war, the Treasury supported the application for the release of this officer, who is now over 60 years of age.

Mr. Hopkinson

Will the right hon. Gentleman now answer my Question? What are the industrial activities of these people, and does he mean to imply that anybody who holds shares in an industrial concern as this undertaking does—and that is its sole function—is entitled to release from the Armed Forces?

Sir J. Anderson

I made it clear that this decision was taken after full consideration, for the reasons I have stated.

Mr. Hopkinson

The right hon. Gentleman has not answered my Question. What are the industrial activities which convinced the Treasury that this man should be released?

Hon. Members

Answer.

Sir J. Anderson

If Members will read my answer in the OFFICIAL REPORT tomorrow they will see quite clearly that the grounds on which the exemption was applied for concerned indirect interests rather than direct industrial activity.

Colonel Sir Arthur Evans

Is it not a common practice for the Services to release men of this age, over 60, who were volunteers in the first place?

Sir J. Anderson

That seems to me not unreasonable.

Sir Frank Sanderson

Is it not also a fact that the managing director of this company recently died, and that it was on that account that it was necessary to ask for this officer's return?

Sir J. Anderson

That may be so.

Mr. Hopkinson

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter again on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.