HC Deb 07 March 1946 vol 420 c505
59. Major Lloyd

asked the Minister of Labour what steps he is taking to protect young men conscripted into the mines from being intimidated into joining the National Union of Mineworkers.

Mr. Isaacs

I am not aware that these young men joining the National Union of Mineworkers do so as a result of intimidation and no action on my part is called for.

Major Lloyd

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree there is some evidence to the contrary? Would he endorse the statement of his predecessor to the effect that there is no compulsion whatever upon "Bevin boys" to join the National Union of Mineworkers?

Mr. Isaacs

I am not at all aware of the first part of the hon. and gallant Member's question. I have no reason to make any comment upon the second part.

Major Lloyd

rose—

Mr. Speaker

Mrs. Castle.

Major Lloyd

On a point of Order. I asked a direct question, whether the Minister would endorse a statement but he did not answer that question; he evaded it.

Mr. Speaker

He answered the question, and I called the next Question.