From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
To officials, superintendents, and foremen regarding the deferment and release of employees from military service.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 143\3\ scan0205 | |
| Date | 19th April 1940 | |
| Abs. F.H. { Please note } Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} 1204. TO ALL OFFICIALS SUPERINTENDENTS AND FOREMEN. 19.4.40. The following is the position at the moment with regard to the possibilities of obtaining release from the Services, also a ruling which governs application for deferment of enlistment as given to the undersigned by the Air Ministry's official dealing with these matters at Harrogate. Return of men serving with the B.E.F, Navy afloat or Air Force with an active squadron. At the present time there are no men being released from any of the Services, nor does there seem to be any probability of this ruling being altered for some time. Men called up and serving with either of the Services at home. It is only in very exceptional cases that men will be returned to their civilian occupation and a very special case must be made out. Reservists called up by the Regular Army and the Royal Navy. In no case will a Reservist be released for civilian duties. Reservists called up by the Royal Air Force. In very exceptional cases where such Reservist is definitely a key man, i.e. head of a department or similar capacities, we may obtain his release. To sum up, we are now faced with the following situation, the only way for us to retain men liable for Military Service who are not exempt by reason of the ages of various trades set out in the Schedule of Reserved Occupations is as follows:- Immediately after registration, a list of men who are not exempt under the Schedule and whom the foreman or superintendent consider necessary to full production, must be sent to the undersigned within 2 days after registration and signed by the foreman or superintendent as a list must be submitted to the Air Ministry within 4 days of the registration date. THIS IS MOST IMPORTANT. An addition to the Schedule has come into force this week reading as follows:- Student, Engineering Apprentice or Learner is now exempt at 18. If there is doubt on any point dealing with enlistment or deferment, please communicate with the undersigned - extension 14. W.H.F. MATTINSON WELFARE MANAGER. | ||