HC Deb 02 November 1937 vol 328 cc726-7
60. Mr. Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that contracts entered into by his Department for the erection of shell-filling factories and the construction of munition storages contain no provision for the employment of local unemployed persons, and that, in consequence, there is discontent among the unemployed in the areas where such work is now proceeding; and will he see that, in all future contracts, provision is made for the employment of the unemployed in the locality of the works?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

It is the practice to issue with contracts a notice urging contractors to engage their labour through the Employment Exchanges and vacancies notified to the exchanges would be brought to the notice of suitably qualified men in the locality.

Mr. Jenkins

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a practice is growing up under which contractors for this type of work bring their employés from other districts, even though there are large numbers of unemployed in the particular district where the work is being done?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

My right hon Friend the Minister of Labour is now examining this question and I will keep in touch with him and give what assistance I can in the matter.