§ 52. Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Labour what purpose is served by the technical and scientific register compiled by the Appointments Department of his Ministry, and if he is satisfied that the results obtained justify the cost.
§ Mr. IsaacsThe purpose served by the Technical and Scientific Register of the Appointments Department during the war was to ensure the best allocation of scientific and technical manpower between the Forces and other forms of national service. The register, and its advisory committees, were also closely associated with the Technical Personnel Committee, of which Lord Hankey is chairman, and with the Wireless Personnel Committee, in framing measures for increasing the supply of technical and scientific personnel who were so urgently required for the Forces and for civilian service during the war.
Since the termination of the war, the register remains responsible for the allocation of young graduates in science and technology, and has performed valuable service in connection with re-settlement 1302 problems. The increasing voluntary use of the register by employers and by technically and scientifically qualified persons requiring appointments or seeking the advice of my technical and scientific staff satisfies me that the register fulfils a very useful purpose and that its continuance is fully justified.
§ Sir G. FoxIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that people object to filling up these forms? Are they compelled to fill them up now in peacetime?
§ Mr. IsaacsIf they do not want a job they need not fill up the forms.