§ 33. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Minister of Works how many men are involved in the abolition of the post of Grade IV quantity surveyor's assistant in his Department; how many of these men have been in Government service for fifteen years or longer; and what steps he is taking for their alternative employment.
§ Lord John HopeSeven quantity surveying assistants, Grade IV, have been declared redundant in the Ministry of Works as part of current staff reductions; this comprises the total staff in that grade. Only one of these has been in Government service for fifteen years or longer. I have had inquiries made of local authorities and other Government Departments in an attempt to find them alternative employment. So far two offers of employment have been made, and others are in prospect.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the Minister aware that the one to whom he refers is a constituent of mine; that he has worked for Government Departments for over twenty years and that now that he is over 50 years old it is a pretty shabby trick simply to shake him off as though the Government have no obligation to him? That is what is happening now. Will the Minister look into the matter again and see that this competent person is provided with some alternative employment?
§ Lord John HopeI hope that the hon. Member has had a letter with regard to his constituent—
§ Mr. ThomasA very unsatisfactory one.
§ Lord John HopeIt may be unsatisfactory, but it is the truth. We have done all we can to help this man. I am advised that he will not be prejudiced in his chances of future employment. We have done a great deal for him.