§ 15. Mr. HOGGEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of National Service the number of applications to 14th April for work under the national scheme from applicants not already employed in work of national importance, and the number for whom work has been found?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Bridgeman)My hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. Out of 163,161 Volunteers dealt with by the Employment Exchanges up to 6th April (the latest date for which complete figures are available),. 93,622 were definitely known to be in trades of primary importance or otherwise not available for various reasons. Twenty-six thousand eight hundred and seventy-three out of the balance of 69,539 were, from experience or physique primâ facie suitable for work in trades of primary importance in which there is a considerable demand for male labour; it cannot at present be stated how many of this total of 26,873 are engaged on work of national importance and are free for transfer. Over 16,000 Volunteers have been offered to employers, of whom 2,804 have started work and 11,826 were awaiting replies from employers. In addition 5,765 were awaiting decision by National Service Sub-Commissioners of protests against transfer.
§ Mr. HOGGEDoes that mean that after all this time that there are only some 2,000 persons who have actually got work through this enormous and expensive organisation?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI have said that 2,800 have been enabled to be started.
§ Mr. P. A. HARRISWhat number of persons are employed by the Department?
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWill the hon. Gentleman say how many of the men who have been placed in employment have since being placed thrown up their job?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI am afraid I must have notice of that question.
§ Mr. BILLINGHow many of the 2,000 are employed at St. Ermin's Hotel?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThat is a question that had perhaps better be addressed to the hon. Member who answers for the National Service Department.
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThat is a question to be answered by whoever replies for the National Service Ministry.