3. Mr. Craik Hendersonasked the Minister of Labour how many women of the 45 to 51 age class have registered; how many have been interviewed; and in how many cases directions have been given.
§ Mr. BevinThe number of women born in 1893 to 1898 inclusive, who have registered under the Registration for Employment Order is 1,543,146. Statistics as to interviews are available only for those born in 1893–1896, numbering 999,064, of whom 17,606 had been interviewed up to 22nd January. Local Offices are instructed not to interview women in these age classes unless there is suitable local work for them which they appear likely to be able to undertake. Statistics as to the issue of directions are not available in respect of particular age classes.
Mr. HendersonIs the right hon. Gentleman now satisfied as a result of his inquiries, that these age groups of women are doing good and useful work?
§ Mr. BevinA very large number have come to the aid of the country by being diverted from what they were doing, to much more useful work.