§ 34. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that employment as football pool clerks is being offered at employment exchanges to rehabilitation trainees; whether those who refuse this kind of employment will be penalised; approximately how many have been placed in these posts; and for how long they will continue.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsIt would be quite wrong for the exchanges to refrain from bringing these vacancies to the notice of disabled persons for whom other more essential work is not available. I have no statistics showing the numbers who have availed themselves of these opportunities, nor can I forecast how long the jobs will 1994 last. I have heard no suggestion of penalisation, but, if the hon. Member will let me know more precisely what he has in mind, I will make inquiries.
§ Mr. SorensenAre we to take it that the principle is accepted that a man can refuse this kind of employment on ethical grounds and will not be penalised for it?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThe matter of penalties is one not really for the Ministry of Labour but for the Ministry of National Insurance, but it has been stated that in no circumstances will a man be compelled to take any job against which he has a conscientious objection.