§ Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance to what extent the services of his Department will be available to advise and assist the Harris Tweed industry in devising a method of arranging the employment of weavers, at present classed as self-employed, which would enable them to be classed as employed persons and qualify for unemployment insurance.
§ Mrs. ThatcherUnder their existing conditions of employment, weavers in the Harris Tweed industry are properly classified as self-employed persons. Reorganisation of this industry is not a matter for my right hon. Friend, but the Ministry's officers are always ready to232W advise on the effects of a change in employment conditions on National Insurance classification and entitlement to benefits.