8. Sir Robert Younģasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that men released from the Army to work underground in coalmines and placed in W. T. Reserve, are being notified to hold themselves in readiness for medical examination for recall to the Colours; and whether, as this action of recalling efficient coalmine workers will increase the difficulties of coal production and mean an increase in selection and training expense of young men as coalminers who would otherwise be posted to one of the Services, ho will reconsider the question.
§ Mr. BevinNo, Sir. Men on release from the Forces for employment underground in coalmines are not being recalled to the Forces so long as they remain in that employment. If they leave underground coalmining or are reported as being physically unfit for that work, they are, of course, considered for recall.
Sir R. YounģWill my right hon. Friend communicate with the R.A. (H.A.A.), Record Office, Dunchurch Road, Rugby, about their issuing orders recalling men in these circumstances, or shall I send him the names of men who have been recalled?