HC Deb 01 March 1945 vol 408 cc1531-2
2. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has taken steps to inaugurate the register of disabled persons provided for in the Disabled Persons (Employment) Act.

Mr. Bevin

That part of the Act which authorises the establishment of the Register has not yet been brought into force by Order in Council. That will be done, and the Register will be set up, as soon as circumstances make it desirable and practicable. Meanwhile, the necessary preparatory work is in hand.

Mr. Bellenger

Is not my right hon. Friend aware that this Register is an essential part of the Act itself, and that there are many ex-Service men now being discharged with disabilities, who find it difficult to get work because of their disability?

Mr. Bevin

I do not think that any find it difficult because of their disabilities to get work. We are handling every case sent down to us now from the Army. The Register has to be set up in time for the employers to work the quota, and I think my hon. Friend will agree that you cannot work the quota yet.

Mr. Bellenger

Could I ask my right hon. Friend to give some indication when he hopes to set up this Register?

Mr. Bevin

As early as possible, as I have said.

8. Mr. J. J. Lawson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will give an assurance that it is the policy of his Department, when placing disabled persons, to pay regard only to such employment which offers the best prospect of permanent resettlement.

Mr. Bevin

Yes, Sir. I have now decided that this shall be the only consideration, and I am issuing instructions accordingly. In the past, I have had to pay regard to the needs of war time production, although the question of permanent employment has been taken into account. But I feel that the time has now arrived when the only consideration should be the resettlement of disabled persons into permanent employment, whether it is work of national importance or not.

Mr. J. J. Lawson

May I ask if the right hon. Gentleman has the co-operation of the employers in this matter?

Mr. Bevin

I have no doubt that the disabled man will get a high priority from the employers of this country, as well as from local authorities and everybody concerned.