73. Dr. DAVIESasked the Minister of Labour if the figures in her possession indicate that the compulsory raising of the school age will have a permanent effect in reducing the figures for unemployment; and what is the estimated effect for each of the years 1931 to 1936, inclusive?
§ Mr. LAWSONI regret that no reliable estimates can be given at the present time of the effect of the compulsory raising of the school-leaving age on future statistics of unemployment.
Dr. DAVIESIs the hon. Gentleman aware that, throughout the country, supporters of his party are making very definite statements as to the effect on unemployment of the raising of the school age, and will he see that they have some definite figures to go on before they make such statements?
§ Mr. LAWSONI am aware that that statement has been made, and I think it is quite right. The hon. Member asks me for specific figures as to the effect on unemployment. It is quite easy to give figures of boys and girls leaving school and entering industry, but it is another matter to give specific figures when one considers the swift changes of method and machinery, and all that must be taken into calculation. The statement as to the reduction of unemployment is undoubtedly true.
§ Sir ARTHUR STEEL-MAITLANDDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that the Lord Privy Seal has stated that it is by no means certain that it is quite right?