1. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware of the public apprehension that many welfare workers who have been appointed to factories recently know little or nothing of their duties; and whether he will take steps to ensure that only qualified persons are appointed to these posts?
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Bevin)I am aware that there is some apprehension on the point. While the selection of personnel managers or welfare supervisors is a matter for firms themselves, my Department may require to be satisfied with the arrangements for supervising the welfare of the persons employed. I have arranged a series of training. courses for such officers to which I should like to call attention, and I have also issued a leaflet entitled "Employment of Women" which gives guidance on the subject of the functions of personnel and welfare officers. If my hon. Friend has any specific cases in mind where the persons engaged have proved to be unsuitable, I should be glad if he would let me have particulars.