§ Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is aware of the difficulties faced by young people leaving the Royal Blind School, Edinburgh in finding jobs; if his Department will give further assistance in this matter; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithI am aware that some young people who have left the Royal Blind School, Edinburgh during recent years have encountered difficulties 315W in finding suitable employment. These difficulties arise from a variety of causes. My Department's officers are seeking the co-operation of all interested parties to study ways and means of improving the position.
§ Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will have consultations with the chamber of commerce and other organisations in Scotland about the employment of young blind people.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithIn seeking employment opportunities for blind school leavers, my Department's officers approach chambers of commerce and any other organisation which may be able to help the young person concerned.
§ Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will draw the attention of Scottish local authorities to the desirability of recruiting a larger number of blind school leavers for employment in their departments.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithMy Department's local officers will draw the attention of Scottish local authorities to the desirability of recruiting to their staffs blind school leavers who possess necessary fications, skills and abilities to be employed in any of their departments.