§ 96. Mr. PENNEFATHERasked the Pensions Minister the reasons why only so small a number as 7,939 men are now in training under the Pensions Warrant; and will he also state the number of men awaiting training and the reasons why their training is not commenced?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Sir J. Craig)The large majority of disabled men are either ineligible for training in that they can resume their pre-enlistment occupations, or do not seek it because they have accepted unskilled, and probably well-paid, employment. The number of men at present awaiting training is approximately 1,500. Of this number 885 desire to take up electrical or mechanical engineering, training for which is for the time being suspended pending certain negotiations with the National Trade Advisory Committee. They can quickly be put into training when a settlement has been reached. Of the remainder a large proportion wish to be trained in boot and shoe making and repairing, but as there is a limit to the absorbing capacity of this trade an endeavour is made, where possible, to induce the man to take up some other form of training.
§ Mr. F. O. ROBERTSMay I ask if the hon. Gentleman will be prepared to consider an increase of the training allowance?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI think perhaps my hon. Friend had better put a question down dealing specifically with the matter.
§ Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the reason why so few men are taking training is the inadequacy of the training grant?
§ Sir J. CRAIGI think, as a matter of fact, there are difficulties with regard to training, and some of those difficulties we are at present attempting to overcome.