HC Deb 29 June 1960 vol 625 cc1386-7
41. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Labour what is the number of disabled persons registered on the disabled persons' register in Sunderland and how many persons so registered are at present unemployed.

Mr. P. Thomas

Three thousand one hundred and fifty-three, of whom 515 were unemployed on 16th May.

Mr. Willey

Does the Minister appreciate that we are very concerned about the very high level of unemployment among disabled persons? It is very distressing. We recognise the work done in the Remploy factories, but will his Department consider extending this, in view of the desperate need?

Mr. Thomas

I well appreciate the problem. I am happy to find that plans for increasing the capacity of the Remploy factory are at present being considered by Remploy.