HC Deb 22 February 1945 vol 408 c923
2. Major Sir Edward Cadogan

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will take into consideration a gratuity being given to the boys directed to work in mines, in view of the fact that had they not been so directed they would have served in His Majesty's Forces and so would have become eligible for the Forces gratuity.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Bevin)

I am not yet in a position to make a statement on this matter.

Mr. Tinker

If my right hon. Friend makes any pant of this kind, will other miners receive one too?

Mr. Bevin

We have that under consideration.

Sir E. Cadogan

How soon will the right hon. Gentleman be able to make a statement?

Mr. Bevin

I cannot say. This is a difficult problem and many others on similar lines are involved.