§ 39. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Labour whether he will agree to the continued deferment from national service of non-graduate nuclear research workers in Newcastle-upon-Tyne whose efforts to get higher qualifications would otherwise be prevented.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodNo, Sir. There are already arrangements whereby craft and student apprentices may be granted deferment to obtain certain qualifications, and I cannot see my way to extending them either generally or in the particular case of non-graduate research workers.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopDoes not the right hon. Gentleman recognise that while there has been some deferment in this case. it is most unfair to practise discrimination against any graduate who is attempting to qualify further in a field of great importance to the country?
§ Mr. MacleodIt is of particular importance in the last months of National Service that we should try to be fair between one person and another. It is 1030 true that a non-graduate can be an important member of a research team, and in these cases facilities are given for both apprenticeship deferment in suitable cases and for post-apprenticeship deferment, during which higher certificates can be obtained.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopWill the right hon. Gentleman at least consider the possibility of even further deferment where it can be shown that further qualifications are being sought?
§ Mr. MacleodThat is precisely the object of post-apprenticeship deferment. I am always prepared to see whether there can he further relaxation, and of course I will look into this matter.