9. Mr. Whiteleyasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that Exchange officials request men to attend the office and, after travelling one or two miles, they have to occupy their time listening to a lantern lecture; whether this is compulsory; and, if not, will he arrange to have notices posted that those who desire may attend instead of the compulsory orders as at present?
§ Mr. E. BrownThe lantern lecture to which the hon. Member refers is, I assume, the cinematograph film illustrating the Government training and instructional centres. The object of the display of this film is to bring home to the men the advantages which they can gain from these centres, and, while it is not compulsory for them to come and see the film, I should be sorry to say anything which might lead the men to think that they would be justified in refusing even to learn anything about these centres which are designed for their benefit
Mr. WhiteleyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these men received a 2225 notice from the local officials, not stating what the business was, but saying that they must be prepared to attend the Exchange at certain times? Was this not compulsion, and could there riot have been a proper notice indicating what was happening so that the men could attend voluntarily?
§ Mr. BrownAttendance is voluntary. If the hon. Member has any particular case of complaint, perhaps he will communicate with me.