Manpower controls

• In early 1942, the Directorate of Manpower introduced laws to ensure both men and women worked in war-essential industries.

  • Those already in essential industries were expected to stay, and others were directed to these industries.
  • All adults required identity cards; officials conducted raids on hotels and racetracks to enforce compliance.
• The government maintained the 80,000-strong Citizen Military Force (CMF) for domestic service and introduced compulsory three-month military training for single males aged 21.
• From January 1943, the Directorate of Manpower began conscripting childless women aged 18-45 for specific employment areas to address shortages in clothing and food production.

  • This led to women being transferred to higher-paying roles through the Women’s Employment Board, moving from traditionally lower-paid jobs.