HC Deb 16 March 1944 vol 398 cc371-2
2. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the local complaints and general dissatisfaction in Wigan district concerning large numbers of single and married young women who, by reason of obtaining various types of certificates, are deferred off work for long periods or not directed to useful employment; and if he will reexamine all local records and causes and wherever circumstances or evidence warrants action take it without delay.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Ernest Bevin)

No, Sir. I have no knowledge of any complaints or general dissatisfaction on this subject in Wigan. If my hon. Friend has any specific cases in mind and will let me know, I will have inquiries made.

Mr. E. Walkden

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his assurance, may I ask him whether he is not aware already of the loose method of issuing medical certificates, and the weaknesses in the regulations, which are general and are well-known throughout the country? Cannot he take more drastic action to tighten up existing procedure?

Mr. Bevin

I really cannot lay down any regulations as to what a doctor should say the hon. Member is suffering from.

Mr. Foster

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, as Member for Wigan, I have had no complaints whatever; that both the Ministry of Labour officials and the Mayor of Wigan have denied these charges, and that they resent interference by a Member from another constituency?

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