4. Viscount - CURZONasked the Minister of Labour how many ex-service men have now applied under the Government scheme for employment in the building trades; and how many are now employed?
§ The MINISTER of LABOUR (Dr. Macnamara)More than 15,000 ex-service men have so far applied to join the scheme. At the present moment only 15 cases have been reported to me where men have been signed on under the contract for which the scheme provides. The scheme was, as my Noble Friend knows, launched on 18th April, when, to the very general and very grave trade depression from which we are suffering, had been added the stoppage of the mining industry. These things, I admit, at once very seriously hamper the building employers in the execution of the undertaking they have entered into with us. I am fully assured that there is no lack of anxiety on their part to help the scheme along, and I sincerely hope that improvement in the industrial situation may give them early opportunity so to do.
§ Viscount CURZONIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the progress that has been made?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAOh! no, certainly not. But the reasons are beyond our control. Everything is at a standstill. All we can hope for is for better times, and as soon as they come, we can go ahead.