HC Deb 25 November 1968 vol 774 c7
7. Mr. Alan Lee Williams

asked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity the average number of registered disabled persons employed by Remploy Limited in each year from 1964 onwards.

Mr. Fernyhough

In the last five financial years Remploy's severely disabled labour force has averaged 6,406; 6,687; 6,893; 6,852 and 7,017. The forecast average for 1968–69 is 7,390, which would be the highest ever.

Mr. Williams

While thanking my hon. Friend for giving news of this gratifying trend in the employment of the disabled, may I ask whether there is any possibility of even further expansion?

Mr. Fernyhough

It is the Ministry's objective to expand the service. First of all, we want to increase production and sales. We hope in 1971–72 to have the labour force of disabled people up to approximately 8,000.

Mr. Hannan

Can my hon. Friend state what is the average wage paid in Remploy factories?

Mr. Fernyhough

I cannot say what the average wage is, but as my hon. Friend has a Question down about the hourly rates, I will be giving him them later.