§ 9. Mr. CHORLTONasked the Minister of Labour what arrangements he has been able to make in the way of specially trained men to meet the shortage due to the improvement in trade and the Defence programme?
§ Mr. E. BROWNSince July, 1935, the number of places available at Government training centres has been increased by over 2,500 and provision has been made for a further increase of 1,500 places in the near future. Steps have also been taken to provide refresher courses in the engineering trades for skilled men who, owing to prolonged unemployment, have been unable to maintain touch with modern industrial practice. The provision now being made will enable between 16,000 and 17,000 persons to be passed through the centres annually.
§ Mr. CHORLTONIs there now no dearth of men in the industries concerned?
§ Mr. BROWNMy hon. Friend will see that that is not susceptible of an answer by way of a supplementary: he can put the question down and I will see what information I can give him.
§ Mr. GEORGE GRIFFITHSIs there any shortage in the mining industry at the present time, and is it not the case that about 300,000 are out of work?