§ 13. Mr. HURDasked the Minister of Labour whether he is able to report any progress in the negotiations with trade unions for the admission of ex-soldiers who are not disabled to training facilities in suitable occupations of their own choice?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Sir Montague Barlow)The training facilities under the training schemes administered by my Department are designed for disabled ex-service men (except in the case of the Interrupted Apprenticeship Schemes). In these circumstances no negotiations are being conducted with the trade unions regarding the inclusion in these schemes, in organised trades, of fit ex-service men. On the general question, however, after discussion with the parties, a Committee has been set up "to consider the best means of facilitating the re-employment of ex-service men, and to make recommendations to the Minister of Labour with regard thereto." On this Committee, which recently held its first meeting, there are representatives of the Ex-Service Men's Associations, the Parliamentary Committee of the Trade Union Congress, the National Confederation of Employers' Organisations, and of my Department.
§ Viscount CURZONMay I ask whether it is not a fact that further summonses have been taken out against a certain Member of this House for employing disabled men, and what action is being taken in regard to that?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI was not aware of that. If my noble and gallant Friend will put down a question I will deal with it.
§ Mr. G. TERRELLCan the hon. Gentle-mean state the names of this Committee which has been set up, and whether all parties are represented upon it?
§ Sir M. BARLOWI have not the names in front of me. I do not know whether 1653 there is any difficulty about stating them, but if my hon. Friend will put down a question I shall be very glad to deal with it. I can say at once that, as far as I am aware, all parties are represented on the Committee.