HC Deb 12 March 1946 vol 420 cc926-7
24. Mr. Royle

asked the Minister of Labour, in view of recent changes in demobilisation plans, and of the fact that a re-registration of customers for food items is due in July, if he will make arrangements for the release in Class B, or Class C, of men in the Forces, whose businesses were closed on their call-up to the Services, so that they may re-establish their businesses at the most appropriate time.

Mr. Isaacs

The existing arrangements already provide for the release of members of the Forces in Class B when this is essential in the interests of food distribution. Release in Class C is a matter entirely for the Service Departments.

Mr. Royle

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the great disadvantage suffered by these men whose competitors are established, and is he also aware that without release in the next two months the best opportunity will have passed?

Mr. Isaacs

There is nothing I can add to the answer. That provision is made for release under Class B and Class C it the men can get the letter from the Service Departments.

Mr. Royle

Is my right hon. Friend aware that releases under Class B and Class C are not being granted solely on the ground that a man has asked to return to his business?

Mr. Isaacs

I cannot say that I am aware of that. If the hon. Gentleman will send me particulars of any case I will be glad to look into them.

Mr. Ronald Chamberlain

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware how unfairly the Class C provision works, in that a man with a light business, which his wife has carried on, is eligible for release under Class C, whereas a man with a heavy business, which has had to be closed down, is not eligible?

Mr. Isaacs

If my hon. Friend will put that question down to the appropriate Department, and not raise it in a supple- mentary question, to me, he will get a better answer than he will from me. I could not answer it.