§ 36. Mr. Burkeasked the Secretary of State for War why the appeal on hardship grounds of reservist J. S. Simpson, Burnley, concerning whom particulars have been supplied, was not granted seeing that his call up will necessitate the closing down of his one-man business, no one being available to carry it on in his absence.
§ Mr. StracheyI am having inquiries made into this case and will write to my hon. Friend.
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§ 37. Mr. Fisherasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the decision to reduce by 39,000 those to be called up in the Z Class Reserve, he will arrange for the over 40's, non-specialist, and personal hardship cases to be the first to have their call up notices cancelled.
§ Mr. StracheyTwo hundred and thirty-five thousand was the maximum figure of Class Z reservists which we took powers to recall. We have repeatedly stated that the actual number might be lower. We have adopted the principle of never recalling a man unless some really useful purpose will be served. Reservists have been pre-posted to particular units on the basis of their skill, rank, military experience and regimental connection, and it is not practicable to reduce the numbers to be called up in the manner suggested by the hon. Member.