85. Captain TERRELLasked the Minister of Labour if he will state the trades in which difficulties have still not yet been surmounted to permit of the adequate training of ex-service men; and if he will in each case specify the reasons for such difficulties?
§ Sir M. BARLOWAs regards the training of disabled ex-service men, the various Local Technical Advisory Committees have naturally, in consequence of the industrial depression, recently exercised a greater reluctance than hitherto in agreeing the numbers to be admitted to training. This is based upon ultimate prospects of employment. The Building Trades Federation, indeed, have informed us that, so far as they are concerned, they cannot agree that any further disabled men can be admitted to training as from the 30th September last. In view, however, of the serious shortage of skilled labour in these trades and the urgent need for a greatly expanded building effort, we cannot accept this, and negotiations with a view to removing the embargo are now in progress. As regards the training of fit men, in pursuance of a decision of the Cabinet, we are approaching employers and employed in connection with three industries—foundry trades, iron puddlers and railway wagon building. Further, negotiations are in progress, as my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, in connection with proposals very largely to augment the number of men engaged in housing operations, and, as my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour told the House last week, those negotiations will be brought to a conclusion at the earliest possible date.