HC Deb 17 November 1938 vol 341 cc1027-8
20. Mr. J. J. Davidson

asked the Minister of Labour the total number of trainees and staff regularly at Glenbranter camp, and the total number of the medical staff?

Mr. E. Brown

At present there are 133 men in training at the Glenbranter instructional centre. The total staff numbers 29, of whom one is a full-time medical orderly, and the services of local doctors are immediately available when necessary.

Mr. Davidson

Is the Minister aware that when I visited this camp there were roughly 350 persons there with one ex-Army medical orderly in attendance, and therefore will he make inquiries and ascertain whether the medical requirements have been met?

Mr. Brown

I do not see how over 300 persons could have been there, since the total capacity is 200.

21. Mr. Davidson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has considered recent representations regarding the conditions at Glenbranter unemployed training camp; and what action he is taking to remove legitimate complaints?

Mr. E. Brown

I am not aware that there are any legitimate grounds of complaint as regards conditions at this centre, but I shall be glad to consider any matters which the hon. Member may bring to my notice.

Mr. Davidson

Has the Minister received recently any representations pointing out that the blankets are changed only once in three months, that the lavatories for this camp are dry, and that the sanitary conditions are not suitable for any community of men?

Mr. Brown

No, Sir. I have received one letter this morning from Bell's Hill which makes a general allegation but no specific complaints. I did see an article in "Reynold's Newspaper" at the end of August in which reference was made to the visit by the hon. Member to the camp, but I have not myself received any representations from the hon. Member.

Mr. Davidson

Has the right hon. Gentleman received a representation from the National Unemployed Workers' Movement in regard to this camp?

Mr. Brown

Yes, Sir. The Scottish Organisation wrote to me as long ago as August about it.