§ 5. Mr. Martenasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what progress her Department is making in its efforts to ensure that the level of disabled unemployed is being reduced.
§ The First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity (Mrs. Barbara Castle)The reorganisation and strengthening of the disablement resettlement service are being carried out as fast as staffing resources allow and the new arrangements should be fully operational by the early summer. A more intensive inspection of employers' records is also being introduced. In addition, I have written to the Confederation of British Industry, the local government associations and nationalised industries seeking their support in appealing to employers to find more jobs for disabled people, and have secured their co-operation. These measures are part of a continuing programme designed to secure a more effective resettlement service. This programme also provides for a further expansion of industrial rehabilitation facilities and sheltered employment for the more seriously disabled.
§ Mr. MartenI am grateful for that Answer. As the level of unemployment among the disabled is at present very high, would the Minister consider circularising hon. Members with the facts and the obligations on industry so that each of us may be in a position to help in our constituencies?
§ Mrs. CastleI will certainly give consideration to that suggestion.