§ 12. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Labour if, to avoid an unnecessary increase in the number of persons temporarily unemployed owing to the reduction in the demand for labour for various war-time purposes, he will issue instructions that no more women who are not normally engaged in any gainful employment shall be directed to such employment in future.
§ Mr. BevinMy hon. Friend is under a misapprehension if he thinks that there is any general reduction in the demand for labour for war purposes, and I am unable to accept the proposal which he makes.
§ Mr. LewisWill my right hon. Friend undertake to keep this matter under review, having regard to the fact that married women have homes of their own to look after?
§ Mr. BevinI keep this matter constantly under review, but I must have regard to the fact that I have to start the normal life of the community as well.
§ 20. Mr. Norman Bowerasked the Minister of Labour whether in view of the releases from the Civil Defence services and the fact that a number of factories engaged on war work have had to curtail production owing to lack or orders, he will cease directing into part-time work married women of 47 years of age and over.
§ Mr. BevinAs I stated in reply to the hon. Member for Colchester (Mr. Lewis), on 5th October, I am considering the position of women in the older age classes with household responsibilities in relation to their position under the Registration for Employment Order.