§ Sir W. ESSEXasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that linotype and montotype operators are being taken for military service by the tribunals with the instruction that their places must be filled by female labour; is he aware that for this highly skilled and very delicate work few, if any, such female operators can be found, and when such have been employed the trade unions concerned have ordered the withdrawal of such substitutes; and is he taking any steps to overcome the difficulties arising from such action?
§ Mr. HODGEThe work of monotype and linotype operators is not included in the list of certified occupations, and the tribunal is accordingly required to act upon the general assumption that men of military age engaged on this work are available for military service, unless the man or his employer satisfies the tribunal that it is in the national interest in the particular case that the man should continue in civil employment. I am aware that certain difficulties have occurred as regards the employment of female operators, and the matter is under consideration by the Departments concerned.