HC Deb 25 January 1949 vol 460 cc726-7
10. Mr. Vane

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the unhelpful attitude of the National Coal Board in Durham in comparison with previous colliery companies, towards recruiting for the Territorial Army; and whether he will make fresh approaches to the National Coal Board to ensure that his Department's literature may be appropriately displayed on National Coal Board premises and ask that National Coal Board officials should accept membership of local recruiting committees.

Mr. Shinwell

I am informed by the Durham Territorial and Auxiliary Forces Association that the Northern Divisional Coal Board are in general adopting a helpful attitude towards recruiting for the Territorial Army.

Mr. Chetwynd

Is it not a fact that, in spite of the allegations in the Question, Durham County has a higher recruiting figure for the Territorial Army than almost any other county in the country, and can my right hon. Friend say how the figure compares with the figure for Westmorland?

Mr. Shinwell

To the best of my knowledge, Durham compares favourably with Westmorland.

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