HC Deb 08 May 1951 vol 487 c1747
36. Mr. Niall Macpherson

asked the Minister of Labour when he proposes to review the occupations of officers in the Territorial Army Reserve of Officers with a view to releasing those who would not be called up in the event of an emergency.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Frederick Lee)

It is proposed, about next September, to review the occupations of these officers with a view to identifying those who would not be available for embodiment for whole-time service in an emergency. It does not follow that officers so identified would be released from the Reserve: that is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War.

Mr. Macpherson

Can the hon. Gentleman say what liaison there will be between his Ministry and the Secretary of State for War in this matter?

Mr. Lee

A very close liaison indeed throughout the whole of this operation.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

In view of the large number of people affected who are anxious to know what their position will be in a national emergency, can we be assured that the War Office and the hon. Gentleman's Department will issue a statement on policy as soon as possible?

Mr. Lee

Yes, Sir.