HC Deb 02 December 1942 vol 385 cc1171-2W
Mr. Rhys Davies

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will consider amending the regulation so that when the Hardship Committee refuses an appeal from an employed person the Committee shall not be entitled to refuse that person the right of appeal to the umpire?

Mr. Bevin

This procedure is laid down by the National Service Act and not by regulation. Applicants have an unrestricted right of appeal to the umpire if the determination of the Committee is not unanimous or if the Committee grant leave. My Ministry have also a right of appeal, and this right is exercised whenever it appears that the determination of the Committee, whether for or against the applicant, is not in accordance either with the facts or with the principles laid down in the National Service (Postponement Certificate) Regulations as interpreted by the umpire.