HC Deb 24 March 1942 vol 378 c1835W
Mr. Hannah

asked the Minister of Labour on what general principles men are drafted into the various compulsory services; and how far present occupation is taken into account?

Mr. Bevin

Men are posted to the Services in response to the demands notified by the Service Departments from time to time. Account is taken of age, physical and mental standard, civilian skill and experience and of men's preference for a particular force so that as far as possible each man may be allocated to the sort of duty in which he will give most effective service. A man's present occupation is taken into account as a most important factor not only in determining whether he should in the national interest be treated as reserved or have his calling up deferred, but for the purpose also of identifying those men who should be earmarked for one or other of the many skilled trades in the Forces.