HC Deb 02 February 1939 vol 343 cc341-2
5. Mr. James Griffiths

asked the Minister of Labour whether he intends to take further measures to deal with the problem of unemployed persons of 45 Nears of age and over; and whether he will give particulars of the measures he proposes to take?

Mr. E. Brown

The problem of the older unemployed is still engaging my attention and I have every hope that the improvement to which I drew attention on 18th July last will be continued. Since that date, the International Labour Office have produced most interesting material bearing on this problem as it exists in other countries, and I have asked the British Government delegate at the present meeting of the governing body to urge that the inquiry should be pursued and to promise this Government's co-operation. It seems necessary to study this problem in its widest implications and to draw on all possible sources of knowledge and experience to arrive at a satisfactory solution.

Mr. Griffiths

Since it is about 18 months ago that the right hon. Gentleman gave a definite promise that measures would be taken by him or by the Government to deal with this question, are we to gather from the nature of his reply this afternoon that the Government have no proposals whatever?

Mr. Brown

On the contrary. I have many times since that time pointed out that we have taken most effective action in many areas, and that the problem differs in different areas and various industries. There is no general solution, but if the hon. Member will look at the comparative figures he will see what progress has been made in many areas.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Will local National Service work be available for these people?

Mr. Paling

Has the Minister consulted with the Minister for War, who told us that he had adopted a policy in relation to the older men?

Mr. Brown

I heard the answer referred to, but I did not gather that conclusion.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Has the Minister taken any steps to ensure that opportunity to do the work provided by the Government in these distressed areas will be offered preferentially to men over 45 years of age?

Mr. Brown

As the hon. Member knows, the Exchanges work on the basis of the best available man being provided for the job; otherwise our work would be impossible. Subject to that, every effort is made and will be made to find jobs for older men.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Minister aware that Government Departments are dismissing men on account of their reaching 60 years of age and that they are thereby adding to this problem; and will he attempt to get this practice stopped?