HC Deb 04 July 1916 vol 83 cc1365-6
38. Mr. JONATHAN SAMUEL

asked the Secretary to the Local Government Board what is the number of disabled soldiers at present receiving industrial training under schemes initiated by the Statutory Committee?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

The Statutory Committee think it desirable to utilise existing schemes for training disabled soldiers pending a full consideration of the whole of this difficult and complicated subject. They are giving earnest attention to it. I may add that there are in operation a number of schemes for the purpose referred to.

39. Mr. J. SAMUEL

asked the Secretary to the Local Government Board whether it is the intention of the Statutory Committee to appoint a permanent secretary to the Committee; and, if so, when?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

The Statutory Committee have not at present decided upon the appointment of a permanent secretary. Meanwhile the duties of secretary have been performed by Lieutenant-Golonel Alfred Welby, the secretary of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation.

Mr. J. SAMUEL

Does not the Statutory Committee think that it is essential that there should be now a permanent secretary appointed so long after the constitution of the Committee?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

It is still more essential, that they should get the right man. They have every hope of getting the right man if they wait a little longer.

Mr. HOGGE

Is Colonel Welby giving his services voluntarily, or is to be paid?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

He has been secretary of the Royal Patriotic Fund Corporation. Whether he will receive any honorarium at the end of his term of office it is impossible for me to say.