HC Deb 10 November 1953 vol 520 c754
16. Mr. Palmer

asked the Minister of Labour if he consulted members of the National Advisory Committee on the Employment of Older Men and Women before publishing the pamphlet, "Age and Employment."

Mr. Watkinson

Yes, Sir, the Committee were fully consulted and approved publication.

Mr. Palmer

Is the hon. Member aware that some of the material in this pamphlet is not at all helpful to those professional workers' organisations and the trade unions whose co-operation will be necessary if a change of opinion on this matter is to be carried through?

Mr. Watkinson

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman is not aware that the National Advisory Committee has a very strong and able trade union membership. When I referred this pamphlet to the Committee, it was the Committee's unanimous view that it should be published. We cannot please everybody in this most difficult task, but I hope the hon. Gentleman supports the general object of the Committee, which is to give a better chance of employment to older men and women.