HC Deb 11 March 1940 vol 358 cc842-3W
Mr. Pritt

asked (1) the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Mr. J. Murphy, of 66, Lime Grove, W.12, who was sent by the Fulham Employment Exchange to the London Passenger Transport Board to seek employment, on 1st March, 1940, was refused engagement, although otherwise acceptable, on the ground that he was Irish, his green card being marked by the board, "not suitable being Irish"; and what steps he will take to prevent discrimination of this kind being practised against men lawfully resident in this country and liable to military service in its defence;

(2) the Minister of Transport, whether he is aware that Mr. J. Murphy, of 66, Lime Grove, W.12, who applied to the London Passenger Transport Board for employment on 1st March, 1940, was refused engagement, although otherwise acceptable, on the-ground that he was Irish; and whether he will consult with the board with a view to preventing future discrimination against Irishmen lawfully resident in this country?

Captain Wallace

I have been asked to reply. The Board must obviously, in present circumstances, examine very closely the credentials of all applicants for employment. The applicant in question was not refused employment because he is Irish and the board regret that the marking of his card should have given the impression that they are discriminating against Irishmen, for such is not the case.