HC Deb 17 November 1926 vol 199 c1855W
Mr. ROBERT WILSON

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that complaints are being made that unemployed persons making applications for employment in hotels and restaurants in this country through private exchanges are able in some cases to secure such employment on payment of a fee, and that some unemployed persons who are not in a position to pay a fee lose the opportunity of securing work of that kind; and will he make arrangements whereby men who have not the necessary funds to pay such fees are found similar employment through the Employment Exchanges under his control?

Mr. BETTERTON

I have no evidence as to the practice suggested in the first part of the question, beyond the fact that the private agencies referred to normally charge a fee for their services. The Employment Exchanges, which charge no fee, endeavour to find employment for all persons registering with them, but their ability to do so must naturally depend on the co-operation of employers in notifying vacancies.