HC Deb 23 September 1943 vol 392 cc369-70
30. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that, at a Government training centre a local unmarried trainee of 21 years of age or over receives, under the.wages scheme, 71s. 6d. per week, while a local single disabled ex-Service man of the same age, working at the same bench, receives only 475. 6d.; and what steps he proposes to take to end this differentiation, which is not fair to men who have sacrificed limbs or health in the country's service.

Mr. Bevin

Trainees, whether disabled or not, receive the same wages if they are taking the same course. Special provision is made for disabled persons who are not fit to take the ordinary courses, and these receive allowances, together with payment of daily travelling expenses. The allowances are not subject to deductions for Income Tax or insurance, as are the wages paid to ordinary trainees, but they are in general somewhat lower than the net receipts of the trainees receiving wages and the rates of allowance are at present under review.

Sir A. Knox

Will the right hon. Gentleman be able to come to any decision soon on that matter?

Mr. Bevin

Oh, yes.

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