HC Deb 19 March 1946 vol 420 cc344-5W
148. Squadron-Leader Donner

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many miners left the coalmining industry in 1945 without the consent of a national service officer; and what are the penalties normally entailed by such departure.

Mr. Shinwell

According to returns furnished to my Department by colliery undertakings, 2,100 men left their employment in the coalmining industry during 1945 without the permission of a national service officer, contrary to the provisions of the Essential Work (Coal mining Industry) Order, 1943. On summary conviction, persons acting in breach of Defence Regulation 58A, under which the Order was made, are liable to a maximum penalty of £100, three months' imprisonment or both.