Miss Ward:

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is satisfied that there are sufficient training facilities available to implement the further education and training schemes available to the Services and industrial workers on demobilisation.

In general I am satisfied that the training facilities should be adequate, but in respect of certain professions there is likely to be a shortage of accommodation and tutorial staff. I am, however, watching the situation closely in conjunction with the other Ministers concerned.

Miss Ward:

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the men from the Far East, who will be demobilised at a later stage, so that they will have a right to that training?

Yes, Sir, certainly.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that teachers of low category are being retained in the Services and sent to the Far East? Would it not be better to retain them in this country so that they can get on with the work of education?

That raises a broad question concerning the whole matter of release and the general policy which has been laid down.

In view of the fact that there are large numbers of men between 19 and 26 in the Forces, will my right hon. Friend consider shortened courses for the other professions, such as he established for teachers? Otherwise, it will be impossible to cope with the chronic shortage of trained personnel.

I will bear in mind every aspect of this important matter, one aspect of which I studied in my previous incarnation.