HC Deb 15 April 1946 vol 421 c2357
85 Major Legge-Bourke

asked the Minister of Labour if he is making arrangements for carpenters' tools to be issued to ex-Servicemen resuming their former trade of carpentry on release.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)

Under the Resettlement Grants Scheme, assistance towards the purchase of a kit of tools may be given to ex-Servicemen who need them in order to accept an offer of work in a trade where it is customary for employees to possess their own tools, and who are unable to buy them wholly from their own resources.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that when these men try to get tools, they are told they are unobtainable because they are all being sent to the training centres?

Mr. Isaacs

I am not aware of that. There is some shortage of tools, but I did not think the shortage was as bad as that. If the hon. and gallant Gentleman has any particular case in mind, and will let me have particulars, I will look at it.

Mr. Berry

Is my right hon. Friend further aware that when application is made to his Department, such applications are refused?