§ 43. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Labour how many bricklayers, plasterers, joiners and plumbers were unemployed at the latest convenient date; and the figures for the same date in 1926?
§ Mr. BETTERTONOn 24th January, 1927, there were 10,038 carpenters and joiners, 4,807 bricklayers, 874 plasterers, and 2,894 plumbers classified as belonging to the building industry recorded as unemployed in Great Britain. The corresponding figures for 25th January, 1926, were 7,525 carpenters and joiners, 2,953 bricklayers, 653 plasterers and 2,167 plumbers.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSMay I ask whether the increase in the number of skilled operatives out of work has any relation to the financial proposals of the Government?
§ Mr. BETTERTONNo, I think not. As far as I can judge, it is one of the repercussions of the coal stoppage.
§ Mr. HARRISIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a shortage of bricklayers and plasterers on the London County Council housing estates? Is his Department prepared to bear the expense of moving these men to where they are required?
§ Mr. BETTERTONI will certainly bring that before my right hon Friend, but I am not very hopeful that the Government can incur expense in the matter.