§ 43. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Labour the number of partially disabled mineworkers who, owing to their disability, are unable to obtain employment in their occupation and who are registered at the employment exchanges in the Easington rural area; and whether he has any scheme in contemplation for providing them with employment.
§ Sir W. MoncktonThere are 75 disabled coalminers unemployed in the Easington rural area, of whom 11 are classified as unlikely to obtain employment except under sheltered conditions. My officers make continuous efforts to place them in employment and co-operate with other Departments concerned in encouraging the introduction of fresh employment opportunities both for these men and other unemployed persons in the area.
Mr. SlaterDoes not the right hon. and learned Gentleman think that more should be done for these disabled men, that the setting up of more rehabilitation centres should be considered? Is he aware that these men feel they are the forgotten men?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI can assure the hon. Member that view is not taken by me or by my Department. We do our best to see that opportunities are given. There are in that area, as the hon. Member probably knows, three Remploy factories for those requiring employment under sheltered conditions. This is an area in which it is difficult to find employment for disabled people who do not require sheltered conditions.
§ 44. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that there is a considerable number of women who are registered at the employment exchanges in the Easington rural area; and whether he intends to find employment for them.
§ Sir W. MoncktonYes, I am aware that there is a considerable number of women available for employment in this area. The employment exchanges are doing all they can to assist them to find work.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes the right hon. and learned Gentleman realise there is only one means of finding work in the area, and that is to introduce new and lighter industries into the new town of Peterlee and the adjoining district? Will he try to persuade the President of the Board of Trade to do something in that direction?
§ Sir W. MoncktonI saw that the right hon. Gentleman did something himself earlier in the week. I will try to assist his efforts.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that it is precisely because I have very little influence with the President of the Board of Trade that I am asking him to appeal to his right hon. Friend?
§ Sir W. MoncktonWe will see what we can do together.