FREEDOM OF CHOICE

Grey River Argus, 5 June 1943, Page 6

FREEDOM OF CHOICE

EX-SERVICEMEN'S OCCUPATIONS.

WELLINGTON. June 4

The question of the freedom of returned servicemen to choose their own occupations on discharge from the Armed Forces was raised by Mr. Goosman when the House met at 10.30 a.m. to-day. In an urgent question to the Minister for Rehabilitation (Mr. Semple) Mr. Goosman asked the Minister to ensure that these men would be given freedom to choose their own occupations and not oe compulsorily directed by the national Service Department to employment.

The Minister in reply stated that in October last instructions were given to all Manpower Officers that as. a general rule ex-servicemen should not be compulsorily directed to employment or refused permission to terminate employment in essential in dustries. That policy was still being carried out and the National Service Department was not aware of any complaints. Mr. Broadfoot, on behalf of Mr. Gordon, asked when men whose military service had been postponed by Appeal Boards would be required to undergo their month’s training. Mr. Fraser replied tnat consideration was being‘given to the question and an announcement would oe made at an early date. He gave an assurance that the interests of primary and secondary industries would be given full consideration, due regard being paid to the necessity of not taking men into camp at times which would seriously interfere with industry.