HC Deb 11 May 1927 vol 206 cc368-9
15. Mr. KELLY

asked the Minister of Labour the number of men who were recently discharged from Portsmouth Dockyard who have been found work elsewhere through the efforts of his Department?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Of the 600 men recently discharged from Portsmouth Dockyard some 450 have registered at the Portsmouth Employment Exchange and 26 have so far been placed in other employment by the Exchange. I understand also that some 50 or 60 others have obtained work with contractors in the Dockyard. Local officers of the Department will continue their efforts to find work for the remainder.

Mr. KELLY

In view of that answer, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman if any effort is being made by his Depart- ment to obtain employment for these men in Portsmouth, or to bring them into touch with employment in other districts?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I think that is the case, but I will find out further information and give it to the hon. Member.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether in these cases where a Government Department discharges employés in large numbers, it is customary to consult other Departments to ascertain whether there is a reasonable probability of the men obtaining employment elsewhere?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

I have no right to answer off-hand for my right hon. Friend. The discharges were made as part of general Government policy with regard to the Navy.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Is it customary for the right hon. Gentleman to be consulted as to whether these men can be found other employment before they are discharged?

Sir A. STEEL-MAITLAND

Not that I am aware of.

Mr. WALLHEAD

Is there no co-ordination whatever between Departments in connection with these discharges?