HC Deb 19 February 1959 vol 600 cc530-1
32. Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that there is anxiety about the use of unqualified hairdressers, and that in every other major country there are compulsory standards of attainment for hairdressers; and whether he will now consider introducing or encouraging legislation to ensure that similar provisions shall prevail here.

Miss Hornsby-Smith

My right hon. Friend has received no representations on this subject and the Government do not contemplate introducing legislation. My right hon. Friend cannot say in advance what the Government's attitude would be towards a Bill introduced by a private Member.

Mr. Janner

Is not the hon. Lady mistaken? Was not a Question asked a few days ago about the provision of properly qualified hairdressers in mental hospitals? Also, is she not aware that there is a considerable amount of feeling that nowadays it is highly essential that this trade should be in the hands of fully qualified people?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

The hon. Member will be aware that efforts to introduce legislation on this matter have failed in the past, and I cannot hold out any hope that the Government will introduce legislation.

Mrs. Hill

Will my hon. Friend consult with her right hon. Friend about the representations which I made to him by letter in January this year on this subject? There is grave anxiety that in this very large industry, which uses chemicals and electricity these days, people should be properly qualified and duly authorised.

Mrs. Castle

Is the Under-Secretary aware that she is now receiving representations from the women Members of the House to do something in the matter? Will she take steps to give help and statutory encouragement to the Hairdressers' Registration Council in its efforts to raise the professional standards in this important industry?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

In view of the intense competition in this industry, I should have thought that any hon. Lady, or anyone else, is perfectly free to ensure that she goes to a satisfactory and adequate hairdresser.