HC Deb 19 July 1938 vol 338 cc1988-9
52. Mr. W. Joseph Stewart

asked the Minister of Labour the number of panels of experts in labour requirements that have been set up in county Durham; the composition of such panels; and whether any members of the medical profession are serving on such panels to determine as to whether a person interviewed is suffering from any physical disability or not?

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Brown)

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to the panels set by eight local employment committees in county Durham to consider the classification of unemployed colliery workers. These panels consisted of representatives of employers and workers in equal numbers. The medical profession was not represented. The panels completed their task last September. In the Consett and Stanley area the members of the panel have since interviewed specially men who have suffered from nystagmus, with a view to assisting them to regain employment.

Mr. Stewart

Is the Minister satisfied that such a committee, without any members who have a medical and surgical training, is likely to be able to determine whether a man is suffering from any disability which might preclude him from following his occupation?

Mr. Brown

These people deal with opportunities for the men concerned to get suitable work. Surely that is not a matter for the medical profession.