HC Deb 01 March 1978 vol 945 cc277-8W
Mr. Hannam

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what percentage of persons undergoing courses under the training opportunities scheme in 1977 were registered as disabled.

Mr. John Grant

, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 28th February 1978; Vol. 945, c. 171.] gave the following answer:

I am informed by the Manpower Services Commission that in 1977 5.5 per cent. of the people completing TOPS training were disabled. This includes registered and unregistered disabled people as no distinction is made by the Training Services Agency between these groups.

Mr. Hannam

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he is satisfied that the Manpower Services Commission gives sufficient emphasis in its Press advertisements for training courses to encouraging disabled people to apply; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Grant

, pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 28th February 1978; Vol. 945, c. 171], gave the following answer:

The Manpower Services Commission informs me that TOPS training, to which I assume the hon. Member is referring, is available on equal terms to all who are suitable for the training provided, and Press advertising related to the TOPS scheme does not in general, therefore, differentiate between particular classes of people. However, the Commission also arranges publicity on the special training facilities available to disabled people. In addition, there is extensive publicity for the Disablement Resettlement Service of the Employment Service Agency which has a special responsibility for the recruitment of disabled people for training.

The Manpower Services Commission published on 22nd February 1978 a programme, entitled "Developing Employment and Training Services for Disabled People". As part of this programme the MSC will ensure that adequate and detailed information about these training services is made available.