§ 25. Mr. G. Jegerasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is now prepared to release all ex-miners who undertake to return to the coal industry.
§ Mr. John Hare:No, Sir. There are already safeguards to prevent men actually working in the mines from being called into the Army against their will.
§ Mr. JegerIs the Minister not aware that many miners are anxious to go back to the mines now? Does not he agree that a willing miner is worth more to the country than an unwilling soldier?
§ Mr. HareYes, but I think that the hon. Member knows that men who are employed in the mines are not called up against their will, but ex-miners—those who have left the pits—do not enjoy that immunity. If a man is in the Services he must complete the Regular engagement or period of National Service that he has undertaken.