§ 60. Mr. Kingasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that, whilst a boy directed to the mines cannot volunteer for service in the Armed Forces, he may be directed into the Armed Forces if his conduct is unsatisfactory; and, in view of the fact that this places a premium on misbehavior, as it is the only way in which a boy can get what he wants, if he will amend this arrangement.
§ Mr. IsaacsI am fully aware of the desires and difficulties of young men directed to mining employment, but I deprecate any suggestion that a premium is being placed on misbehavior. The great majority of the young men have honored their national service obligations by working in, the mines, and I regret that they cannot be allowed to join the Forces.
§ Mr. KingDoes the Minister think that reasonable? Is he aware that boys can get into the Army now only by deliberately misbehaving in the mines? However good these boys may be— and they are— is this not imposing an impossible burden upon them?
§ Mr. IsaacsThat is exactly the point in the Question to which my answer is directed.