HC Deb 19 March 1942 vol 378 c1633
6. Sir Leonard Lyle

asked the Minister of Labour whether he can give a list of private employment agencies that have been approved under the Employment of Women (Control of Engagement) Order No. 100; and whether he can indicate what proportion of existing employment agencies are likely to receive approval under that Order?

Mr. Bevin

The agencies which have so for been approved under the Order are as follow:

  • Thirteen University Appointments Boards or Committees.
  • The Industrial Welfare Society.
  • The Institute of Labour Management.
  • The Institute of Hospital Almoners.
  • The Society of Radiographers.
  • The Society of Women Housing Managers.
  • The Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes.
As regards the second part of the Question, I do not anticipate that this list will be greatly extended.

Sir L. Lyle

Is it not a fact that almost all the private employment agencies which have applied have been refused approval, and is there really an intention of quietly strangling all these agencies?

Mr. Bevin

I have no intention of strangling anyone. It is a mere question of administration, and I must try to get the best type of machinery I can.

Mr. Levy

In my right hon. Friend's endeavour to get the best type of machinery, why is it necessary to do away with all these agencies? Does he suggest that the Employment Exchange is the best type of machinery for the various kinds of employment?

Mr. Bevin

Considering the Exchanges are transferring to industry nearly 20,000 women a week, I think they are fairly effective.