HC Deb 20 November 1947 vol 444 cc1331-3
50. Wing Commander Roland Robinson

asked the Minister of Labour why ex-servicemen and women studying a course of photography under the vocational training scheme at the L.C.C. School of Photo-Engraving and Lithography, who have at their own expense, and on their own initiative, and with the acquiescence of his Department, taken the Intermediate examination of the Institute of British Photographers in order to improve their professional standing, have been informed by his Department that their training cannot continue if they are successful; and whether he will reverse this decision.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)

Training under the vocational training scheme is provided only to the extent necessary to enable trainees to obtain suitable employment. I am advised that the Intermediate Examination of the Institute of British Photographers is recognised as a standard qualification for employment as a photographer. Accordingly, training under the vocational training scheme is terminated when the trainees have passed that examination and steps are taken to place them in suitable employment.

Wing-Commander Robinson

Is the Minister aware that the ex-Service men students concerned were given a written promise that they should have a full two years' course and that many of them were promised jobs afterwards on the strength of completing the course, which was the qualification required by employers? Will the Minister consider reversing this highhanded action on the part of his officials, which is really a breach of faith with the ex-Service men concerned?

Mr. Isaacs

I should not agree about high-handed action and a breach of faith until I have seen the written instruction to which the hon. and gallant Member refers, but I will have it looked up. However, if these men have now reached a status in the industry entitling them to take up employment in it, it is useless to continue their training.

Sir David Robertson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have a letter in my hand from one of my constituents who has a two-year grant from his Department? Only one year has elapsed. This student hopes to pass his intermediate examination. What is he to do with the other year's grant?

Mr. Isaacs

I have not the slightest knowledge what the hon. Gentleman has in his hand, but if he will let me have a look at it I shall be able to examine it.

Wing-Commander Robinson

Is the Minister aware that I placed all the facts in front of his Parliamentary Secretary so that he should have them before him in order to answer my Question?

Mr. Isaacs

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will agree that he sent them to the Parliamentary Secretary on the 18th, that they reached the office at 2 o'clock on the 19th and that I have not yet had an opportunity of looking at them.