§ 3. Sir A. SHIRLEY BENNasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state what steps the Government are taking about the indentured apprentices-who were called up during the War; and whether the Government proposes to ex- 841 tend the period of apprenticeship and to make up to men's earnings the wages of the apprentices in order that they may be efficiently trained?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Wardle)A scheme for assisting these persons, whose apprenticeship was interrupted by service in His Majesty's Forces, to complete their apprenticeship, has been approved by the Government. Among other provisions, the scheme provides:
Negotiations with such councils and committees are now being carried on, and I am glad to say that I hope to reach agreement in the near future.
- (i.) For a reduction of the unexpired period of apprenticeship;
- (ii.) For a State Grant to the apprentice of one-third the journeyman's rate as soon as the apprentice has reached the age when, but for the War, his apprenticeship would have been completed;
- (iii.) For such contributions on the part of the employers as will, with the State's allowance, make up the apprentice's wages to not less than three-quarters of the journeyman's rate for the first year of training, and to not less than five-sixths for the second year;
- (iv.) For the scheme embodying these and other provisions, to be drawn up by national industrial councils or by other committees representative of the industry;
- (v.) For a maintenance allowance, under certain conditions, to allow of training in a technical school or institution.
§ Sir SHIRLEY BENNMay I ask if that information will be widely spread, so that those affected may know of it?
§ Mr. WARDLEI will endeavour to take such steps as will make it known.