Mr. Robertsonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he has considered the problems arising from the continued idleness of large numbers of skilled and semi-skilled operators who are employed in the heavy and light rescue services; and, having regard to the serious housing situation, will he consider releasing some of the men for local work in making habitable bomb-damaged properties.
§ Mr. H. MorrisonArrangements are already in existence whereby men of the type referred to may, subject to suitable safeguards, be released for short-term employment. Essential training and exercises, together with unavoidable routine duties, necessarily occupy part of the time of those retained in the Service; but in addition they are carrying out a large amount of useful work during their duty hours.