§ 6. Mr. K. Robinsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent prospective entrants into the Civil Service are required to give information about insanity among members of their family.
§ Mr. H. BrookeAll successful candidates in open competitions for establishment are asked, among many other questions relating to their health, whether any of their near relations have had pulmonary tuberculosis, asthma, fits, epilepsy or mental disorder. The same questions are asked of candidates whose establishment is dependent upon a period of temporary service, if their health record during such service has not been satisfactory and medical inquiries are therefore warranted.
§ Mr. RobinsonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is this kind of question, asked by Government Departments and other prospective employers, which does as much as anything to perpetuate in the public mind the stigma connected with mental illness? Will he give a lead on behalf of Government Departments to eliminate this question in the future?
§ Mr. BrookeI think that the hon. Member is going a little too far. It is not unreasonable to ask questions of this kind of a candidate for establishment, because the Civil Service Commissioners must be able to assess the likelihood of a man being able to give regular and effective service.
§ Mr. ShinwellMay I ask whether similar questions are addressed to prospective members of the Government?