HC Deb 31 July 1922 vol 157 cc985-6
106. Major MALONE

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that capable unemployed men who are registered on the Tottenham Employment Exchange have been refused employment on the tube extensions and also on the exhibition buildings now in course of erection at Wembley; and will he use his influence to see that those men are fairly treated?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Any measures taken by the Department must be dependent on the notification of vacancies to the Employment Exchanges. Arrangements for such notification were made at the outset with the contractors concerned, but so far very few vacancies have been notified. I am making further inquiry.

Lieut.-Colonel J. WARD

Is it not a fact that there are plenty of capable men applying directly on the works for this work, and surely the men who usually follow this employment ought to have the first claim?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Of course, in any scheme we assist preference must be given to ex-service men.

Lieut.-Colonel WARD

Then nearly all the navvies are entitled to the job, for they served.