HC Deb 18 March 1912 vol 35 c1510
Mr. WALTER GUINNESS

asked whether the Labour Exchange at Norwich has endeavoured to supply housekeepers and other domestic servants; and whether Labour Exchanges are authorised to compete with local registry offices in dealing with domestic servants generally?

Mr. BUXTON

I have no reason to suppose that the Norwich manager has contravened his instructions with regard to vacancies in domestic service. As regards the nature of these instructions, I have already stated that Labour Exchange managers have been instructed from the first not to deal with resident vacancies for domestic servants in private houses. A limited number of Juvenile Advisory Committees have, however, recently been permitted, under carefully defined conditions, to find places for girls below seventeen desiring to go into service. I shall be glad to inquire into any specific case in which it is alleged that the existing instructions have been infringed.

Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKE

Will the right hon. Gentleman state what efforts are made by the Government to enforce those instructions?

Mr. BUXTON

Any specific case of alleged breach of instructions is at once looked into and carefully considered.

Mr. W. GUINNESS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that Ipswich Labour Exchange also have stated that they are prepared to place domestic servants?

Mr. BUXTON

If the hon. Member will give me any specific case, I will certainly inquire into it.