Vocational Training Scheme

Oral Answers to Questions — Employment – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 11 Tachwedd 1947.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Sidney Shephard Mr Sidney Shephard , Newark 12:00, 11 Tachwedd 1947

asked the Minister of Labour if he will give an assurance that men released from the Forces who are untrained and unequipped for any civilian occupation will be given facilities to undertake a Vocational Training Course, and will not be directed into employment either before undergoing such training or for a period of at least eight weeks after completion of such training

Photo of Mr George Isaacs Mr George Isaacs , Southwark North

The facilities for training under the Vocational Training Scheme are still available to men released from the Forces provided that they apply for training during the period of their release leave. On completion of training, such men will have brought to their notice vacancies on essential work in the trade for which they have been trained. I can give no guarantee that, in the unlikely event of a man refusing to be submitted for suitable essential work, he will not be subject to direction.

Photo of Mr Sidney Shephard Mr Sidney Shephard , Newark

Is not the Minister aware that very often these men have to wait a very long time before they can undergo a course of vocational training? Will the Minister give an assurance that their right to find their own jobs is not prejudiced in that case?

Photo of Mr George Isaacs Mr George Isaacs , Southwark North

They have plenty of time to exercise their right to choose their own jobs before they undertake training, but if they undertake training at the expense of the State, it is only reasonable that they should accept work in the trade for which they have been trained.