Call-up (Hansard, 6 March 1956)

§ 2. Mr. Osborne
asked the Minister of Labour how many men possessing a science degree have been called up in the last two years; and, in view of the fact that during their two years' National Service they lose touch with rapid science developments and the vitally important part they have to play in the export drive, if he will now grant all men possessing a science degree total exemption from National Service.

§ Mr. Iain Macleod
About 4,600 men with degrees or diplomas in science and engineering have been called up since 1st April, 1954. The answer to the second part of the question is "No, Sir."

§ Mr. Osborne
In view of the fact that these men so soon lose touch with developments in science and can contribute such a great deal in relation to their number, which is only 2,800 in three years, will my right hon. Friend not look at this question again?

§ Mr. Macleod
We review this matter constantly. There is, of course, a great distinction between, for example, coal miners, who are not needed in the Services in their ordinary occupation and scientists and engineers of whom it is necessary in our modern Services to have a substantial number. I recognise the importance of the question. It is one which the Government are reviewing.

§ Mr. Allaun
In view of conflicting statements which we have had from the Prime Minister and three other Ministers about their intentions, and indeed their hopes, of ending conscription, would the Minister confer with the Prime Minister with a view to giving us an authoritative statement on the Government's intentions?

§ Mr. Macleod
There is no confusion whatever in the statements that any Ministers have put before the House or the country. The position with respect to National Service is perfectly clear. We should like to see it go as soon as possible. That depends, amongst other things, on the response there is to the recent pay code.

§ 3. Mr. Hector Hughes
asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that the present arrangements of his Department for the deferment of call-up of men employed in the Merchant Navy, coal mining, agriculture, and as police cadets and for the deferment of call-up of apprentices, learners, pupils, and students are, in present national and international circumstances, not sufficiently extensive and that much national skill, training, time, and energy are thereby wasted; and if he will set up an authoritative committee to inquire into all matters relevant to such call-up arrangements and to report to Parliament.

§ Mr. Iain Macleod
No, Sir. The present arrangements for deferment of call-up for National Service are designed to meet the needs of the Forces and of certain vital industries, to enable young men to complete their education and training before call-up, and to maintain as far as possible the principle of universality of service. I do not think any useful purpose would be served by an inquiry on the lines suggested.

§ Mr. Hughes
But does the Minister not agree that, as a matter of principle as well as expediency, the call-up arrangements should not be inflexibly rigid but should bear direct relation to economic and political and cultural criteria so that they can be adapted to the needs of the nation as time goes on?

§ Mr. Macleod
These requirements are not inflexible and have been modified on a great number of occasions, as hon. Members know. But the body that should decide that kind of thing is clearly the Cabinet and not any inquiry or body such as suggested by the hon. and learned Member.