§ Mr. MYERSasked the Secretary of State for Air whether the Report is now available regarding workmen at the Shotwick aerodrome who are being subjected to medical examination, although the employment is only of a temporary character; and whether, having regard to the fact that several men over 50 years of age have been discharged in consequence, and that the resentment caused amongst the workmen may involve a stoppage, he will now give instruction, that all men employed on work of a temporary character shall not be subjected to medical examination of this kind?
Captain GUESTI have now received a report upon this question and find that no workmen have been discharged at Shotwick as stated, but several men who presented themselves for employment were rejected, because, in the opinion of the medical officer, their physical condition was such that they were considered unfit for the work which they would have to perform. No man was rejected merely because he was over 50 years of age or had72W three teeth missing, as stated in the hon. Member's question, and, in fact, men who suffer from both these disadvantages have been taken on. I am unable to agree to dispense with medical examination in cases of temporary employment.