§ 21. Mr. LOGANasked the Minister of Labour how many British seamen, including all sea-going persons other than fishermen, are unemployed at the present time or at the latest convenient date, and the number in June, 1932?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONThe number of unemployed seamen, aged 18 and over, on the registers of Employment Exchanges in Great Britain was 42,587 at 23rd January, 1933, and 37,882 at 25th July, 1932. Separate statistics in respect of seamen of British nationality are not available.
§ Mr. LOGANIs the right hon. Gentleman acting in collaboration with the Board of Trade in respect of this unemployment?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONI am constantly in touch with my colleagues on this and other matters.
§ Mr. LOGANHas there been any deliberation with regard to unemployment in the British Mercantile Marine, in view of the fact that foreigners are employed while British seamen are unemployed?
§ Sir H. BETTERTONThat matter and similar matters are constantly under review between the Departments of the Government.
§ Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSCan my right hon. Friend say to what extent unemployment among seamen is due to the fact that they sign the register between the conclusion of one voyage and the commencement of the next, even though they know definitely that they are going on the same ship on its next voyage?
§ Mr. LOGANWill the right hon. Gentleman also state how it affects the city of Liverpool as regards tariffs?