HC Deb 17 December 1919 vol 123 cc397-8
60. Mr. A. SHORT

asked the Minister of Health whether it is proposed to hold a conference with trade unions to discuss proposals for dilution in the building trades; whether he is aware that, on the ground that 1,000 bricklayers and a similar number of bricklayers' labourers are alleged to be out of employment, the War Office have refused to take immediate steps for the demobilisation of about 150 bricklayers still serving in the Army; and whether prior to the institution of any system of dilution, he will press for the immediate demobilisation of these men?

Sir R. HORNE

I have been asked to reply to this question. A meeting of the Joint Industrial Council for the Building Industry was addressed yesterday by the Prime Minister, who urged the members of the building trade to recruit sufficient labour to bring their members to the level at which they stood before the war. I am not aware of the action stated to have been taken by the War Office, but there are riot enough bricklayers available to supply the demand, nor will there be even when all the bricklayers in the Army are demobilised.

Mr. SHORT

Are there any bricklayers out of work?

Sir R. HORNE

Sporadically you may find that in particular districts there are a few bricklayers out of work, but at present the great demand is for bricklayers which cannot be supplied.

Mr. T. WILSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in many cases what is required is not bricklayers, but bricks?

Sir R. HORNE

In many cases where there are lots of bricks available there are no bricklayers.