§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Employment what steps he is taking to improve employment opportunities for disabled people; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Dudley SmithThe measures which the Government have already taken to expand the economy have, I am glad to say, improved the employment position of disabled people significantly over the last year. In addition, as my right hon. Friend made clear to the House on 3rd August 1972, we intend to improve the employment and training ser vices provided for disabled people by my416W Department, and have embarked upon a consultative programme with my National Advisory Council on the Employment of the Disabled and others concerned about how best to achieve this improvement. Four trials, designed amongst other things to show whether improved vocational assessment facilities can be provided, are due to start next month. Discussions are proceeding with the council on how the disablement re settlement officer service can best be improved in the context of the modernisation of the general employment service. My right hon. Friend plans also to publish consultative documents on the future of the quota scheme and of sheltered employment as soon as possible.