HC Deb 03 March 1926 vol 192 cc1448-9W
Mr. G. W. H. JONES

asked the Prime Minister "whether, in view of the poor response made by private firms, as evidenced by the figures of the King's Roll since its inception, it is the intention of the Government to introduce a Bill for the compulsory employment of disabled ex-service men, or whether the Government would support such a Bill if introduced by a Member?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I have been asked to reply. I do not think it can fairly be said that the response made by private firms under the scheme for the employment of disabled ex-service men has been poor. On the contrary, I think most firms recognise the national obligation in this matter, and are doing their best to give practical effect to it. I doubt whether an attempt to apply compulsion would really promote the end we all have in view. I should prefer to rely on the continued efforts of the King's Roll National Council and the Local King's Roll Committees, seconded by the Resolutions passed recently by both Houses of Parliament restricting Government contracts to firms on the Roll.