asked the Minister of Labour what is the increase in the number of applicants awaiting vacancies registered with the Appointments Department of his Ministry since 1st August, 1945, to the latest convenient date; and what is the number of persons satisfactorily placed during this period.

Between 1st August and 30th September, 1945, the latest date for which figures are available, the number of applicants registered with the Appointments Department awaiting vacancies increased by 8,200, and during the same period 4,855 were placed in employment. Figures are not immediately available as regards nurses awaiting vacancies, but during the same period 5,927 were placed in employment.

Is it not a fact that applicants are struck off the waiting list if suitable appointments have not been found for them after a reasonable interval of time?

I should like to see the basis for that allegation. My impression is that there is no truth in it.