§ Mr. Martinasked the Minister of Labour whether the ban on the release of men in the Forces who belong, in civil life, to the building trades, was taken after full consideration of the difficulties in which local authorities and others find themselves placed by the shortage of key men in districts which have suffered heavy damage from raids; and whether, in view 1821W of the urgent need for house repairs in such districts, this decision can be reviewed.
§ Mr. E. BevinNo ban has been placed upon the release of building trade workers from the Forces. Any applications which are made by the appropriate Government Department for the release of men required for the purpose referred to in the Question are dealt with under the normal procedure and decided in accordance with the general rules governing release from the Forces for urgent civil work of national importance.