HC Deb 10 March 1926 vol 192 cc2283-4
54. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are over 400 highly disabled ex-soldiers in Nottingham who cannot obtain employment; and whether the Government will cause fresh inquiries to be made into the problem of finding work for ex-soldiers suffering from a high rate of disability?

Mr. BETTERTON

According to my information the number of disabled men in Nottingham classified as unsuitable for employment under ordinary industrial conditions is 39, while those classified as fit for light work under such conditions is 258. The local King's Roll Committee takes an active interest in the problem of finding employment for these men, and certain special proposals are being discussed with the Department at the present time. The general problem of finding employment for heavily disabled men is continually under review, with the advice and assistance of the King's Roll National Council.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Cannot the hon. Gentleman relax the rule in favour of the highly disabled soldiers who have already drifted on to the Poor Law—I mean the rule as to two years' employment?

Mr. BETTERTON

The rule which says that there must be a reasonable amount of employment within the last few years is not necessarily a bar. It may be waived in suitable cases under, I think, paragraph 37 of the Instructions given to the local committees. As to the special point of the disabled men, my right hon. Friend is now specially considering it.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Is my hon. Friend aware that there is a considerable number of highly-disabled men who have already drifted on to the Poor Law?

Mr. SPENCER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that over 50 per cent. of these men have not the remotest possible chance of getting work at the present time: therefore, will he give these cases further and adequate consideration?

Mr. BETTERTON

That is the inquiry my right hon. Friend is making. I have no doubt there, are a number of cases of highly-disabled men whose chances of getting employment are not very bright.