HC Deb 06 February 1930 vol 234 c2053
10. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Minister of Labour how much actual employment is lost to Devonport and Plymouth through the cancellation of the building of the cruiser "Northumberland" in Devonport dockyard?

Miss BONDFIELD

I would refer the hon. Member to the second part of the answer given to him on 29th January-last by my right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

May I ask the right hon. Lady whether, when economies in naval construction are undertaken, amounting to £6,000,000, the effect on employment is taken into account, and whether her Department is consulted, so that those who are thrown out may be found other work?

Miss BONDFIELD

I can add nothing to the reply which has been given.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Can the right hon. Lady not answer a perfectly simple question? Is her Department consulted in order that those men who are thrown out of work may find other employment?

Miss BONDFIELD

Certainly.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

What do the Department do about it?