HC Deb 16 September 1931 vol 256 cc841-2
43. Mr. EDE

asked the Minister of Labour if he will give the number of men and youths, respectively, unemployed in South Shields on the latest available date; if he is aware that, although plentiful labour is available, the Pirelli Cable Company employ, in a scheme assisted by the Unemployment Grants Committee, men for three shifts of eight hours each in two days or an average of 12 hours per day; and will he take steps to bring this practice to an end forthwith?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Milner Gray)

On 7th September, 1931, there were on the register of the South Shields Employment Exchange 12,161 men aged 18 and over, and 596 boys aged 14 to 17. As regards the last part of the question, inquiries are being made, and I will communicate with the hon. Member in due course.

Mr. EDE

Is the hon. Member aware that the acting manager of the South Shields Exchange gave me the information in the latter part of the question 10 days ago, and will he try to get this matter expedited and reasonable conditions restored?

Mr. GRAY

I will get the information as quickly as possible and communicate with the hon. Member.

Mr. EDE

In addition to communicating with me, will the hon. Member communicate with the firm and get these horrible conditions stopped?

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