HC Deb 03 May 1977 vol 931 c115W
Mrs. Chalker

asked the Attorney-General what action he is taking to increase the number of registered disabled persons employed in the Land Registry; and when he expects to achieve the 3 per cent. target.

The Attorney-General

In local recruitment of staff to work in the offices of the Land Registry selection boards are reminded of the 3 per cent. quota and told that candidates who are registered as disabled persons (RDPs) should be recommended for appointment provided they are judged suitable by the normal criteria. Disabled people are encouraged to apply for vacancies by various means: advertisements include a reference to the Department's willingness to consider RDPs; applicants are told that a physical handicap or disability is no cause for rejection provided it would not prevent satisfactory service; registered disabled applicants for clerical vacanices may sit special tests if they lack the formal educational qualifications, and arrangements exist whereby local disablement resettlement officers are kept informed of vacancies. A departmental disabled persons' officer is responsible for the recruitment and career development of RDPs throughout the Land Registry.

I am unable to forecast when the 3 per cent. quota will be reached.