§ 22. Mr. RHYS DAVIESasked the Minister of Labour what constitutes the advisory panel for the ophthalmic optical industry and the date of its formation; whether those employed in the industry are represented on the panel; and, if not, whether he will give favourable consideration to giving those employed representation thereon?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAAn advisory panel for this industry was set up in the London area in March last, and consisted of nine employers representing the manufacturing, jobbing and prescription firms. A similar local panel was set up in Birmingham last month. Employés in the industry are not at present represented on the panels owing to the absence of any organisation from which nominations could be obtained. If any suitable association of the employés in this in- 342 dustry comes into existence I will reconsider the constitution of the advisory panels.
§ Mr. DAVIESIf I send to the right hon. Gentleman the name of an association covering these people, will he consider the point?
§ Dr. MACNAMARACertainly.
§ 23. Mr. DAVIESfurther asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that there is an acute depression in the jobbing and prescription business of the ophthalmic optical industry, and that ex-service men are being trained for this business under his control without much hope of securing employment at the end of their training; and whether, in view of this state of affairs, he will consider a revision of the whole scheme of training in this connection?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe opinion of the jobbing, prescription and retail branch of the ophthalmic optical trade is that there will be a number of openings for disabled men. Some 16 vacancies have already been offered. Disabled men will only be trained for this industry in as far as vacancies are available for them in workshops.