HC Deb 03 March 1926 vol 192 cc1419-21
49. Mr. MACLEAN

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the various Exchanges in Glasgow at which the Industrial Research Fatigue Board have been given permission to carry out tests?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

The Employment Exchanges at which these tests have been carried out are: Glasgow, South Side; Glasgow, Central; Bridgeton; Govan, and Springburn.

Mr. T. SHAW

Will the Minister pay special attention to the fact that a very careful explanation is given to all the persons when the examination takes place, so as to give them some indication of the importance of this examination?

Mr. MACLEAN

Instead of seeing that these people have careful examination, will the Minister not get this thing stopped altogether?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

On the contrary, as is well known by the right hon. Member for Central Edinburgh (Mr. W. Graham), who is chairman of the organisation, these tests are extraordinarily valuable.

Mr. MAXTON

In the case of the examination that is to take place in the Bridgeton Division, will the right hon. Gentleman provide an escort for those who have to carry out the test?

Mr. THURTLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that certain boards of directors are submitted to this test?

Mr. KIRKWOOD

And some Cabinet Ministers.

50. Mr. MACLEAN

also asked the Minister of Labour whether he can state the results of the tests carried out by the Industrial Research Fatigue Board at the Govan Employment Exchange; whether these tests are now completed; and, if not, when they are likely to be completed?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I am informed that the results will be published by the Industrial Fatigue Research Board in due course. I understand that the tests of applicants at the Employment Exchanges in Glasgow have been completed.

Mr. MACLEAN

How soon will that be published, so that we may know whether the test has been as valuable as the Minister says it is?

Viscountess ASTOR

Is it not true that these tests have led in other countries to great social reforms? [Interruption.]

Mr. BUCHANAN

It is an insult to women. Why should she not be tested?

Mr. SPEAKER

Hon. Members will please not shout across the Floor of the House, or I shall have to take strong action.

Viscountess ASTOR

rose

Mr. SPEAKER

I was not referring to any individual.

Mr. MACLEAN

Do you not understand, Mr. Speaker, the amount of resentment that must be felt by Members who have coming to them in their constituencies women who have been sent in to be medically examined without being told that it was voluntary?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is not mended in any way by shouting across the Floor of the House.