§ 10. Mr. Wilkesasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that an investigation of 148 firms coming within the jurisdiction of the Newcastle-upon-Tyne Disablement Advisory Committee showed that 25 per cent. of the firms were not complying with the Disabled Persons (Employment) Act, 1944; and what further action he will take to ensure that a section of industry and commerce does not evade its responsibilities under the Act.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsNo. I imagine my hon. Friend is referring to a statement that 25 per cent. of the firms are not employing 3 per cent. of disabled persons. But that does not necessarily mean that they are not complying with the Act. The Act allows an employer to work up to the standard percentage gradually by filling vacancies as they occur with disabled persons. As regards the last part of the Question, appropriate steps have been taken in this and other areas to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act.