§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is aware of the problems for disabled professional persons in bridging the gap between hospital and returning home; if he will consider taking steps to provide additional special rehabilitation centres to make it possible for such people to work; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithI am aware of the problems in bridging the gap between hospital and returning home, and so, consequently, to work. I have at present no evidence, however, which suggests that the number of professional people needing the services of a special rehabilitation centre would justify its provision.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will take steps to provide machinery for analysing the work potential of disabled persons and for assisting them to progress from part-time to full-time work; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithFacilities are available at 25 industrial rehabilitation units for assessing the working capacity and aptitudes of disabled persons. Occupational guidance units attached to 44 employment offices can also provide help in appropriate cases.
Part-time workers can be assisted to become fit for full-time work through a course at an industrial rehabilitation unit.
§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will take steps to ensure that the compilers of the professional and executive register give full information to disablement rehabilitation officers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithThe staff of the Professional and Executive Register co-operate fully with disablement resettlement officers in the placing of disabled persons who are seeking employment at the levels covered by the register.