§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received on the effects clause 7 of the Local Government and Housing Bill will have on the employment prospects of disabled people registered under section II of the disabled persons' employment register, intending to work, or working in local authority workshops, sheltered placement schemes or homeworker schemes; what action he will he taking; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has received no representations on this aspect of clause 7. The aim of the clause is to ensure that all local authority staff are appointed on merit. It will, however, be subject to certain existing statutory provisions, including sections 9 and 12 of the Disabled Persons (Employment) Act 1944—quotas and reserved employment. The position of disabled people seeking local authority employment will therefore be protected.