42. Colonel Sroddart-Scottasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that a boy who was discharged on medical grounds after 14 months' service in the coalmines, has now been called up into 1906 the R.A.F. and has been informed that this first 14 months of national service will not be counted in arriving at his age and service group; and as, if he had been able to stay in the pit, this service would have counted towards his demobilisation, will be consider this anomaly and prevent his service in the R.A.F. from delaying his demobilisation by 14 months.
§ Mr. IsaacsThe question whether pre-enlistment employment in coalmining may count for the purpose of release from the Forces, in the case of ballotees, is already under consideration, and I hope to make an announcement in the near future.