HC Deb 29 October 1946 vol 428 c442
44. Mr. Bossom

asked the Minister of Labour if he intends making it compulsory for young men deferred from full-time military service to join one of the three pre-Service training units, Sea Cadets, Army Cadet Force or Air Training Corps.

Mr. Isaacs

No. Sir. Even if there were power to do this, I do not think it would be a satisfactory arrangement.

Mr. Bossom

Will the Minister not look into this situation, and see what alternative service these men who are exempt from military service are to do?

Mr. Isaacs

That is rather another question, but we feel that if we are going to introduce any form of compulsion into a voluntary service it will spoil the spirit of the service. The hon. Member will remember that the Home Guard was a happier service when there were volunteers, than when all were brought in.