§ Mr. Rhys Daviesasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Mr. Llewellyn Roberts, 4, Dickenson Yard, Westhoughton, Lancashire, 36 years of age, an ex-miner, has been employed as a universal grinder, work of national importance, at the De Haviland factory since 20th November, 1939; that he was recently directed to work at the Brackley coalmine, Little Hulton, Bolton, which would have meant a reduction of about £2 per week in his wages; that his employer was unwilling to release him but was compelled to do so by his department; that Roberts has appealed against the direction and is now unemployed, apparently without title to unemployment benefit; and whether he will withdraw the direction in this case and allow this man to return to his employment at the De Haviland factory?
§ Mr. AsshetonI am having inquiries made and will communicate with my hon. Friend as soon as possible.