§ 28. Colonel Ropnerasked the Minister of Labour whether, in view of the number of cases of fraud perpetrated on ex-Service men and women, he has considered the advisability of introducing a system of licences for private employment agencies; and, if not, what action he proposes to take to safeguard the interests of those who are seeking employment.
§ 30. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Minister of Labour whether he will take steps to control, by a system of licensing or otherwise, the activities of private employment agencies charging exorbitant fees or commission.
Mr. LeeMany local authorities already have powers under local Acts to control by licence the activities of private employment agencies. The question whether further powers should be sought is under consideration. Meanwhile, persons seeking employment can best safeguard their own interests by using the free services provided by the employment exchanges.
§ Colonel RopnerHas the hon. Gentleman any information as to whether these frauds are as commonplace as appears to be thought in many quarters?
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonWill my hon. Friend bear in mind that the time for bringing to an end this undesirable form of private enterprise is long overdue?
§ Sir W. DarlingIs the hon. Gentleman aware that his Department has been in existence for 40 years organising employment and unemployment, and that private persons still prefer to go to these private agencies?
Mr. LeeI do not know whether the hon. Gentleman's question is misleading or not, but during the time of this Government they have been organising employment.