HC Deb 12 November 1918 vol 110 c2551W
Mr. KING

asked the Under-Secretary for the Home Department whether he is aware that a number of men employed at the waterworks, Llangadock, South Wales, who are qualified for exceptional employment, have submitted proposals but experience months' delays in getting these passed, with the result that, when the permission is received, posts approved are no longer available; and whether he will expedite the present procedure or whether the staff dealing with these cases will be increased, preferably by discharged soldiers?

Mr. BRACE

The Committee have in many cases to make local inquiries, and these sometimes occupy a week or two; but I think that, where there is a delay of months or even of one month, the hon. Member will find that it is always due to the conscientious objectors submitting proposals for employment of such a nature that the Committee cannot approve them. The staff is temporarily reduced by illness, but I believe that in normal circumstances it is sufficient.