HC Deb 05 December 1956 vol 561 cc1229-30
20. Mr. Ernest Davies

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what reply he has given to the Chairman of the British Transport Commission's request that railwaymen in key positions be released from National Service or their call-up deferred during the present emergency.

Mr. Watkinson

After consulting my right hon. Friends the Minister of Labour and National Service and the Minister of Defence, I have informed the Chairman that as from 14th December the call-up for National Service of railwaymen in key positions will be suspended for the duration of the present emergency, that the release of any who have been recalled as Army reservists will follow the procedure described in the statement by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War on 20th November, and that it is not possible to release men who are already serving as National Service men.

Mr. Davies

I am glad for once to be able to say that I am gratified at the reply I have received, but might I ask the Minister whether he can reconsider the latter part of his reply? In view of the serious shortage of manpower which may confront the railways because of the increased traffics which are bound to be loaded on to them, will he consult his right hon. Friend with a view to releasing those National Service men called up? I understand that the number is not inconsiderable.

Mr. Watkinson

I will certainly keep it in view, because I am most anxious that the railways should carry all the traffics offered to them, but this is a substantial concession.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Since engineers manufacture and maintain railways equipment, should not they equally be exempt?

Mr. Watkinson

That is a very long-term suggestion, and this is a very short-term concession.