asked the Minister of Labour how many retired officers from the Services are now on his Department's books; and how many have been on them for six months or more.

At 31st March last 645 retired Regular officers were registered as unemployed, 322 of them for six months or more.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that—as these figures seem to indicate—retirement becomes a very anxious time for many officers because it is necessary for them then to find a job and they find that difficult on account of Service experience? Will he try to help them a little more in one way or another?

I shall try to help, but we have to look at this matter in perspective. I think my hon. Friend realises that since 1957 18,600 retired officers have registered with the Ministry of Labour. We have to keep in mind exactly how much has been achieved in placing the balance in employment. Of course, we must try to continue to help as much as we can, but, with the background I have given, I think my hon. Friend may see that the situation is not so bad as he thought.