§ 55. Mr. Milneasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will introduce legislation to prevent employers and firms discriminating against the employment of persons aged 45 years and over.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Employment (Mr. Dudley Smith)No, Sir. I believe that the interests of older workers are best served by encouraging employers to consider them on their merits.
§ Mr. MilneIs the hon. Gentleman aware of the serious concern that exists about discrimination against people aged over 45 and others in the higher age groups who are looking for employment? Does he accept that some directive, assistance and guidance from the Government is definitely required by employers about this and that he will be failing in his duty if he does not take the necessary action in this matter?
§ Mr. SmithThis is obviously something that one must keep under review the whole time. It is a tremendous human problem. We must not at any time suggest that people over 45 are unable to compete on their merits. If we were to differentiate in this matter, there would be a danger of that impression being given.