HC Deb 09 November 1948 vol 457 cc1365-6
26. Mr. Ralph Morley

asked the Secretary of State for War how many firms are refusing leave with pay to soldiers in the Territorial Army for their annual training; and what action he is taking in such cases.

Mr. Shinwell

No statistics are available. Every effort has been made to encourage employers to grant extra leave, preferably with pay, to volunteer members of the Territorial Army employed by them. The majority of employers are, I am glad to say, willing to give extra leave for the purpose of attending Territorial Army camps. I do not consider that it would be desirable to attempt to exercise any form of compulsion.

Mr. Morley

Is my right hon. Friend aware that a good many firms are not giving leave with pay for this purpose, and can he bring some form of Ministerial pressure to bear in such cases?

Mr. Shinwell

I am aware that some firms are disinclined to make the concession—probably for very good reasons—but I would hesitate to bring pressure to bear on them.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

Would the right hon. Gentleman say if his answer applies equally to the nationalised services and industries?

Mr. Shinwell

That matter is under consideration.

Mr. Sydney Silverman

Can my right hon. Friend say why, if we all agree that these men are entitled to their pay during periods of voluntary training, the State should not pay?

Mr. Shinwell

Of course, the State does pay the Army pay.

Mr. Sidney Shephard

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in his broadcast, he gave the impression that all local authorities were both paying their men, and giving them leave? Will he confirm or deny that?

Mr. Shinwell

I am not aware of any local authority which has refused to grant the concession.

Mr. Shephard

Has the right hon. Gentleman made inquiries? Does he know it for a fact?

Mr. Shinwell

Of course, we do make inquiries.

Mr. Low

As the Minister mentioned that there might be a good reason for some firms refusing such leave, will he say what he considers to be a good reason?

Mr. Shinwell

It may be that a small employer cannot afford it.