HC Deb 21 November 1946 vol 430 cc1018-9
56. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Labour how many men under the age of 30 years, who have worked in reserved occupations during the war, have been called up for military service since 1st January last; and how many have been excused.

Mr. Isaacs

I will circulate the available information in the OFFICIAL REPORT as soon as possible.

Mr. Hurd

Will the right hon. Gentleman also take steps to make this information known through his Service colleagues to the troops serving overseas who feel very strongly on this point, especially since their release has been held up?

Mr. Isaacs

That is an important matter, and we will bear it in mind.

Mr. Kingsmill

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the importance under present conditions of people who have learnt their jobs on farms becoming farmers, because under a reserved occupation they are no longer allowed to leave their jobs as agricultural labourers to become farmers?

Mr. Isaacs

I am afraid that is rather a different question, but I will look at the point the hon. Gentleman has raised.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

How long have they to serve?

Mr. Isaacs

It all depends on the circumstances. I could not give a definite answer.