Recruiting Advertisement

Oral Answers to Questions — British Army – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 2 Rhagfyr 1947.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Hon. Michael Astor Hon. Michael Astor , Surrey Eastern 12:00, 2 Rhagfyr 1947

asked the Secretary of State for War whether in the advertisement for recruiting for five years in the new Regular Army, under the caption, "George—you're kidding," he will have deleted the two sentences which imply official Government approval to the contention that a skilled worker cannot compete in industry today without a union card.

Photo of Mr Emanuel Shinwell Mr Emanuel Shinwell , Seaham

This section of the advertisement was intended merely to bring out the fact that, as announced by my predecessor on 17th June in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Reading (Mr. Mikardo), the recognised soldier tradesman is not debarred from the advantage of trade union membership in civil life. I am, however, having the text revised so as to remove any mistaken impression which might be created by the present wording.

Photo of Hon. Michael Astor Hon. Michael Astor , Surrey Eastern

While I will wait to see what the revision will be, can the Minister assure the House that this caption, "George—you're kidding," is not a veiled reference to the Minister of Labour?

Mr. E. P. Smith:

On a point of Order. Is it not a fact that no quotations are allowed in Questions? If so, could you, Sir, give your Ruling whether in future quotations might be allowed?

Photo of Mr Douglas Clifton Brown Mr Douglas Clifton Brown , Hexham

I did not get the point. Would the hon. Member make it again?

Mr. E. P. Smith:

There is a quotation in Question No. 16—"George—you're kidding."

Photo of Mr Douglas Clifton Brown Mr Douglas Clifton Brown , Hexham

As the Question has passed the Table, I am sure that it is in Order.