§ Mr. Tom Smithasked the Minister of Fuel and Power the position with regard to regional investigation officers now that prosecution for absenteeism has ceased.
§ Mr. ShinwellRecently I decided to abandon the policy of prosecution of miners for alleged offences against Article 6 (1) of the Essential Work (Coalmining Industry) Order, 1943. As a result of this decision, 6 Chief Regional Investigation Officers and 81 Regional Investigation Officers employed on this work have become redundant and their employment is being terminated with effect from 30th November, 1945. At my direction a letter has been addressed to all these officers acknowledging the valuable services they have rendered to the Ministry.