HC Deb 14 December 1965 vol 722 cc256-7W
Miss Quennell

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware of the difficulties facing middle-aged and more elderly workers in finding work in East Hampshire; and what steps he is taking to bring suitable employment to the area.

Mr. Thornton

On 12th July, 1965, 198 men over 45 were registered as unemployed in the East Hampshire area. Of these, 119 were over 60. This lends weight to reports from my local offices that in the main the people affected are occupational pensioners whose normal jobs are closed to them. Most of these are qualified only for sedentary work. The second part of the Question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.