HC Deb 06 April 1922 vol 152 c2426
74. Mr. MOSLEY

asked the Minister of Labour whether, having regard to the fact that large numbers of workmen are unemployed in Wembley and that no relief scheme has been started there, he will give instructions that in allocating workmen for the construction of the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley priority be given to local unemployed workmen?

Dr. MACNAMARA

In submitting men to the contractors for employment at Wembley, the Exchanges will select those applicants who are industrially most suitable, subject to the usual preference for ex-service men. I cannot undertake that residents at Wembley shall have any special priority, but, in the nature of things, they would, presumably, have a better chance of obtaining this employment than residents elsewhere.

Mr. MOSLEY

Why, in the nature of things, would the local men have a better chance?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Because they are handy. It seems a rather sensible suggestion.

Mr. MOSLEY

Will the right hon. Gentleman give instructions that they should have priority?

Dr. MACNAMARA

I cannot do that, but, obviously, being there on the spot, they will probably have a better chance.