§ Mr. J. Morrisonasked the Secretary of State for War how many civilian motor drivers are employed by the Army now compared with a year ago, and at what weekly wage; and why these posts cannot be filled by Service drivers.
§ Mr. ShinwellOn 1st October, 1946, approximately 2,400 civilian motor drivers were employed by the War Department in the United Kingdom. The corresponding figure for 1st October, 1947, was approximately 2,700. The wages paid vary according to the district and the type of vehicle, between approximately 93s. and 108s. a week. The work can be done by either military or civilian drivers and it is the policy of the Department to use both. The shortage of military drivers has led to an increase of civilians. The civilian drivers are employed on duties for which military drivers are not available.