§ 32. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that when a girl is sent to a situation, particularly in domestic service, the Employment Exchange demands a character as to the girl's capacity and honesty; if the same is demanded from the proposed employer; and, if not, what steps are taken to protect the girl when sent to a situation?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDIn the case of domestic service vacancies references are usually required by the prospective employer, and if the applicant consents the Exchange takes up her references. It is not the practice to require formal references from employers in connection with such vacancies. Employment Exchanges are, however, instructed to satisfy themselves as far as possible that such vacancies are genuine. In the case of girls under the age of 18, the assistance of the Juvenile Advisory Committees is sought, and a parent or guardian is consulted before she is submitted for the vacancy.
§ Mr. BUCHANANCan the right hon. Gentleman say if, in the case of the women who are sent to employment as barmaids, any inquiry is made into the class of places to which they have to go?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDOh, yes. We do endeavour to satisfy ourselves as far as possible, and I have given what is done with regard to cases of persons under 18. I think on the whole sufficient care is taken to try and see that the places are suitable.
§ Mr. W. THORNECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether when these vacancies are filled and girls are sent, inquiries are made to see how they are going on or whether they have found suitable places?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDI cannot do that in view of the number. I have had inquiries made in individual cases where I had any reason to suspect that inquiries were necessary, but I cannot undertake to do that in all the cases.
§ Mr. BUCHANANHas the right hon. Gentleman, in cases where his Department had knowledge that in the past employés sent by the Employment Exchange have not been treated as they thought desirable, taken any steps to refuse to consider vacancies from those places?
§ Sir A. STEEL-MAITLANDIf the hon. Member will put down any instances I will examine them, but, all that I can say is that, speaking in general language, I should certainly not wish to recommend people again in any case where I had really good reason to believe that the situation previously offered was not suitable.
§ Mr. WALLHEADWhat would happen to a girl who left her employment because it was unsuitable and because the place was not fit to live in—would she be deprived of unemployment benefit?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat seems to be an hypothetical question.