§ 89. Mr. Walker-Smithasked the Secretary of State for War what age and service groups in the three Services, so far, have been offered block release in Class B, in respect of building trades operatives.
§ Mr. LawsonThere are many different sub-classifications under the general heading of building trade operatives and so far as the Army is concerned different groups have been reached in different cases and again in different arms of the Service. I regret, therefore, that it would take a considerable time to obtain the information asked for, which would involve a mass of figures. As regards the other two Services, I understand that with the exception of those persons who cannot be spared, virtually every tradesman in the Navy and R.A.F. with more than one year's service, who is not due for early release in Class A and is in the categories of building trade operatives required by the Ministry of Labour and National Service has been or will shortly be offered block release in Class B.
§ 105. Captain Chetwyndasked the Secretary of State for War why the release of officers in Groups 25 and 26, now serving in Italy, has beer deferred until 15th May and 15th June, respectively.
§ Mr. LawsonI have called for a report on this matter and as soon as it is received, I will write to my hon. and gallant Friend.