§ 19. Mr. P. Robertsasked the Minister of Labour whether he will consider waiving the need for call-up for National Service of such men who can show four years' service in the Merchant Navy, together with a certificate of competency as second mate, and who will give an undertaking to return to the Merchant Navy in the event of hostilities.
§ Mr. WatkinsonNo. The call-up of a merchant seaman can only be deferred so long as he remains so employed. If 183W a man ceases to serve in the Merchant Navy before attaining the age of 26, he becomes available for call-up, if medically fit, in the same way as a coalminer does.