HC Deb 06 November 1945 vol 415 cc1205-6W
Mr. T. Brown

asked the Minister of Labour if he is satisfied with the rate of demobilisation of men from the Armed Forces for the mining and agricultural industries of the country.

Mr. Isaacs

All underground coalminers in the Forces, who are not due for early release in Class A and for whom immediate employment is available, are being offered release in Class B. The question of Class B releases for agriculture is under consideration. As regards releases in Class A, as I explained in my comprehensive statement of 2nd October, these are the maximum possible in the present circumstances.

Mr. Warbey

asked the Minister of Labour how many building trade workers had been released under Class B up to the latest convenient date; and how many it now is intended to release under this category by 31st December, 1945, consequent upon the recently announced speed-up in Class A releases.

Mr. Isaacs

The number of building operatives released in Class B up to 15th October was 12,067. As regards the second part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 11th October to the hon. and gallant Member for Edinburgh West (Lieut.-Commander Hutchison).

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