§ Mr. Cocksasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in the case of soldiers who, without applying themselves, were placed on Class W Reserve and directed to essential building work and were subsequently recalled, such service will be counted for release purposes.
§ Sir J. GriggCommand 6548 lays down. that only whole-time service in the Armed Forces of the Crown since 3rd September, 1939, which counts for Service pay, counts for release purposes. No exceptions have been made in favour of any of those men who were released to take up employment in industry. The employer normally applied in the first place, but no man was released who was not willing. I am afraid that I cannot adopt the hon. Member's suggestion.
§ Major Markhamasked the Minister of Labour if he can now make a statement regarding the estimated timetable for demobilisation of soldiers in the lower groups.
§ Sir J. GriggI have been asked to reply. It is intended to release groups up to and including 11 by 12th August. I am not at present in a position to make any further official statement.