§ Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for War to what extent the services of women, whether in the Women's Voluntary Service or otherwise, are available and made use of by the Home Guard for carrying out such duties at headquarters as telephone operators, first-aid messengers, typists, etc.; and whether every encouragement in suitable cases is given to this, with a view to freeing men for combatant duties?
§ Captain MargessonThe services of members of the Women's Voluntary Service have for some time been widely used to carry out suitable auxiliary duties for the Home Guard. A large number of individual women are also giving their services in a voluntary and unofficial capacity. Such assistance is certainly encouraged, and I am glad to have this opportunity of acknowledging its value to the Home Guard.