§ 21. Mr. HOGGEasked the Minister of Munitions what progress he has made in securing his additional 80,000 skilled workers for the national factories?
§ Dr. ADDISONAs my right hon. Friend has already informed the House, it is hoped to obtain these men by the dilution of skilled with unskilled labour, the withdrawal of men from the Colours whether serving in this country or abroad, the training of semi-skilled men for special operations, the utilisation of the services of mechanics from overseas, and the withdrawal of men from occupations not essential to the national interest. All these operations are in progress, and it is anticipated that their combined effect should produce the necessary results, given the whole-hearted co-operation of the interests involved.
§ Mr. HOGGEWill the hon. Gentleman answer the question on the Paper— whether he has made any progress in securing the additional 80,000 skilled workers?
§ Dr. ADDISONYes, considerable progress has been made in securing them, as my hon. Friend will see from my answer. A great many facts are involved and we cannot separate one from another.
§ Mr. ALDENCan the hon. Gentleman say whether he has succeeded in withdrawing any skilled workers from the front?
§ Dr. ADDISONYes, a considerable number.