HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 cc2059-60
5. Sir John Mellor

asked the Minister of Labour why his Appointments Department usually inquires of persons enrolled on the Appointments Register, who have obtained employment by other means, the medium through which they obtained such employment; and whether he will prohibit such inquiry.

Mr. Bevin

The practice referred to is not restricted to persons enrolled on the Appointments Register. It is part of the general machinery for ensuring that manpower is used to the best advantage, and I cannot agree to its modification in respect of a particular class of persons.

Sir J. Mellor

What is the purpose of this question? Is my right hon. Friend aware that it is even asked of persons who are not restricted in finding employment, and who have accepted employment with firms who are not restricted to engaging their labour through the Ministry?

Mr. Bevin

There is the Restriction on Engagement Order, under which certain persons in certain age groups and for certain industries must be employed through the employment exchanges. If I do not ask this question, I do not discover whether employers are evading their obligations or not, and I am not prepared to make any distinction as to the class of person of whom I ask the question.

Sir J. Mellor

Surely my right hon. Friend knows which category a particular employee and a particular employer is in.