§ 3. Mr. Burkeasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that three local doctors have formed a panel, meeting once a week at the Burnley exmployment exchange, before which workers seeking release from employment for health reasons are compelled to appear; that the National Service officer refuses to accept certificates from the workers' panel doctors; that a perfunctory examination is given for which 2s. 6d. is charged; and whether this practice has his approval?
§ Mr. BevinThis arrangement has been made on their initiative by the medical practitioners at Burnley for the convenience of all concerned and does not require my approval except that the use of the employment exchange building has been allowed owing to the absence of other suitable premises. My Department does not compel workers to attend-before this panel, nor does it refuse to consider medical certificates from other doctors.
§ Mr. BurkeDo I take it that anyone who refuses to attend this panel will not be refused a release if his medical grounds are satisfactory?