asked the Minister of Labour what steps he proposes to take to give effect to the recommendations of the Report of the Working Party on the Employment of Blind Persons.

Mr. Lee:

The recommendations of the Report of the Working Party on the Employment of Blind Persons cover a wide range of topics and involve many considerations. These are at present being discussed with Government Departments and the various other interests concerned in the welfare and employment of the blind, and the steps eventually taken will depend to some extent on the result of these discussions.

Is my hon. Friend aware that many blind persons found employment comparatively easily during the war and in the years immediately following the war, but are finding it very difficult to obtain employment now? Could he do something to help them?

Mr. Lee:

We are in consultation with those people who co-ordinate the activities of blind people. I am not sure that my hon. Friend is right in believing that there is any large increase in the numbers unemployed. We will certainly look into it and help in any way we can.