HC Deb 06 February 1945 vol 407 c1886
40. Mrs. Tate

asked the Secretary of State for War why applicants to serve in service canteens are asked to supply references from two responsible British male persons, such as a minister of religion, doctor of medicine, justice of the peace, barrister-at-law, solicitor or bank manager; and why women in these professions are not permitted to act as such references.

Sir J. Grigg

I am not aware that N.A.A.F.I. or the Council of Voluntary War Workers make any such stipulations but if the hon. Lady will send me particulars I will make further inquiries.

Mrs. Tate

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that War Office letter 103/General/6107 (M.I.11) dated 1st August, 1943, specifically states that references must be from two male persons, and as that is a War Office letter I could not but conclude that it means what it says?

Sir J. Grigg

Naturally, I do not carry in my head all the details of the many thousands of War Office letters which are emitted in the course of a single year, but from the hon. Lady's description it looks to me as though she is referring to the stipulation of the Foreign Office to applicants for passports.