§ 26. Mr. David Rentonasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that local authorities and other public bodies frequently stipulate when advertising for posts that no person over the age of 45 years should apply; that waste of trained and educated manpower results; and whether he will inform local authorities of the desirability of employing people over 45 years.
§ Mr. IsaacsIf the hon. Member will send me particulars of cases he has in mind, I will consider, in consultation with my right hon. Friends the Minister of Health and the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether any representations might properly be made to local authorities in the matter.
§ Mr. KeelingIs the Minister aware that the Minister of Works, when appointing an architect for the new Colonial Office, first declined to consider any recommendation of architects over 45, and then chose one who was a long way over 45?
§ Mr. W. R. WilliamsWill the Minister keep in touch with industry in general, because I understand that the same limitations and restrictions are being applied in industry generally?
§ Mr. IsaacsThe Question only applies to local authorities, but we have on more than one occasion urged employers not to be too" choosey about this age, because there are many men over the age of 45, especially in this House, who are competent and clever.