HC Deb 04 November 1947 vol 443 cc1521-2
17. Colonel Ropner

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has any information concerning the encouragement or otherwise which is being given to the employees in nationalised industries, such as the mining industry, to join the Territorial Army; and, in particular, whether such employees will be granted extra holidays with pay during part or the whole of the period of annual training.

Mr. Shinwell

I have at the moment nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member for Newark (Mr. Shephard) by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 29th October.

Colonel Ropner

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that recruiting for the Territorial Army throughout the country is most disappointing? Is he further aware that one of the chief reasons why recruiting is disappointing in many mining areas is that the National Coal Board have given no intimation as to what will be their attitude towards employees joining the Territorial Army? Will he make representations to the Minister of Fuel and Power that the attitude of the National Coal Board should be made perfectly clear at the first possible opportunity?

Mr. Shinwell

I am glad to be able to give the hon. and gallant Member and the House this information from the National Coal Board, that they are considering this matter.

Colonel Ropner

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think it is time they made up their minds?