HC Deb 26 February 1946 vol 419 cc353-4W
Major Symonds

asked the Secretary of State for War the highest age group in which former bricklayers have been offered release under Class B.

Mr. Lawson

There are many different sub-classifications under the general heading "bricklayers" and different groups have been reached in different cases and again in different arms of the Service. It has not so far been necessary to go beyond Group 37 in any of these occupations in any arm, but in many of the occupations and in some arms that group has not been reached.

Mr. Collins

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that R.A.M.C. personnel in release Groups 28-30 have been informed that their demobilisation may be deferred for a period of three months; what are the reasons for this decision; and if he will take all possible steps to ensure an even rate of release of all trades in the Army.

Mr. Lawson

No decision to defer R.A.M.C other ranks in these groups has been taken and any information to this effect which has been given to them is unwarranted. Apart from any individual deferments which may be necessary, R.A.M.C. other ranks in these groups will be released in accordance with the general programme for the Army as a whole.

Flight-Lieutenant Beswick

asked the Secretary of State for War if there is any equivalent in the Army of the explanatory demobilisation signals sent out by the R.A.F.

Mr. Lawson

A number of different methods have been used by the Army to keep men informed about the release scheme and its progress. The basis of the system is free discussion in units and establishments throughout the world, followed by the publication of authoritative answers to questions which are collated as a result of such discussions. For example two A. B.C. A. pamphlets have been issued—one at the same time as the White Paper and the other in September, 1945. More recently I had a complete set of questions and answers on points connected with the release scheme prepared; this was given a wide distribution and was intended to provide officers with the necessary information to answer their men's questions. Numerous copies of this pamphlet have already been placed in the Library of the House and a second edition is now being prepared which will cover such further points as have arisen since the previous issue was published.

Sir G. Fox

asked the Secretary of State for War if, in view of the need for civilian teachers, he will now take steps to include teachers in the Army Education Corps in the Class B block release scheme.

Mr. Lawson

The A.E.C. is only a small Corps and if teachers serving in it were to be included in the Class B bulk release scheme the Corps could not fulfil its duties. I attach great importance to the Army Education Scheme and I would prevent the scheme being carried out.

Captain C. Smith

asked the Secretary of State for War in which age and service group plumbers are at present being offered release under the Class B scheme.

Mr. Lawson

A fresh demand for plumbers has recently been received. This is being dealt with at present, but I cannot say to what groups it will be necessary to offer release in order to meet the demand. The latest group to which Class B offers for plumbers had (previously been made is 32.