HC Deb 06 November 1945 vol 415 cc1075-6
81. Colonel Stoddart-Scott

asked the Minister of Labour, if, in view of the misapprehension on the results, he will restate the position with regard to the demobilisation from the Forces of men with one-man businesses.

Mr. Isaacs

I propose to include a statement about owners of one-man businesses in the pamphlet on demobilisation questions which will shortly be made available to hon. Members.

Colonel Stoddart-Scott

While thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that in one of our great national newspapers, there was a front page headline, on 21st September, saying, "Men who run little businesses to get release?" Will he take steps to see that these men are told the truth?

Mr. Isaacs

I have enough troubles of my own without trying to teach newspapers how to run their business.

Mr. Peake

Can the right hon Gentleman say when this pamphlet will be available, because many Members are being troubled about this question at present?

Mr. Isaacs

We are anxious to get it into the hands of Members as quickly as we can. No delay will be permitted, but we want to make it as full as possible. I cannot promise the date, but it will be out as quickly as we can get it done.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

May we take it that the Class C release scheme, now in operation for Service men, will continue?

Mr. Isaacs

I cannot answer that off-hand.

Lieut.-Colonel Byers

Is there any reason why the House should not have an advance copy of what is to be put into the pamphlet?

Mr. Isaacs

If there is to be an advance copy, why have the pamphlet?

Lieut.-Colonel Byers

On this specific point, I mean?

Mr. Isaacs

Do not let us have any penny numbers.