§ Mr. Leonardasked the Minister of Labour the factors considered in determining exempted occupations and ages; to what extent consultation is carried on; and who makes the final decision?
§ Mr. AsshetonThe factors primarily considered in determining the occupations to be reserved under the Schedule of Reserved Occupations, and the ages of reservation, are the extent to which the occupations concerned are necessary for maintaining production or services required for our war effort, our export trade, and our vital civil needs, and how far the retention of men of military age is necessary for the purpose having regard to the skill and experience required. Another factor is the extent to which men in certain occupations are needed for the corresponding Service trades in the Armed Forces. These considerations are continually reviewed in the light of the need of maintaining a balance of man-power between the Armed Forces and industry. The responsibility for making, and altering, entries in the Schedule rests with my right hon. Friend, and he has the benefit of the advice of the Government Departments concerned, with whom regular consultation takes place. There is also frequent consultation with representatives of industry.