§ 38. Mr. CHORLTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air, in view of the difficulty in obtaining skilled craftsmen for the manufacture of aero engines, what special steps he is taking to train others?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe question of provision of skilled craftsmen is primarily one for the aero-engine firms themselves, drawing on the normal sources of labour supply, and the Ministry of Labour Employment Exchanges have been able to give them systematic help. In particular, special 1370 arrangements have been made for the detailed needs of the firms to be currently notified to the Exchanges. The available labour in all parts of the country to meet these needs is carefully ascertained through the Ministry's clearing machinery, and the firms are put in touch with the available men. In so far as these skilled additions to their staff are not already fully trained on the work for which they are required, the requisite supplementary training is best given within the firms' own workshops.
§ Mr. SHINWELLAre the trade unions concerned consulted before this dilution of labour is asked for?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI think that that would be a matter for the Ministry of Labour.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs not this a matter which comes within the jurisdiction of the Air Ministry?
§ 39. Mr. CHORLTONasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether any steps are being taken to obtain engine parts other than through existing engine firms as sub-contracts; and whether he will give a list of the districts from which such parts are being supplied?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, the second part does not, therefore, arise.