HC Deb 24 June 1937 vol 325 cc1347-8
4. Mr. Lawson

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is taking any steps to set up training centres to train employés for the catering trade; and whether he will make it a condition that this trade should agree to the setting up of a trade board before he proceeds to train employés for these employers?

Mr. E. Brown

Training for various occupations in the catering trade is provided at a number of existing centres, and the facilities are adjusted from time to time according to the numbers of suitable persons from areas of heavy unemployment who desire such training. The action suggested in the second part of the question would not, I think, be appropriate. I would point out that this training is undertaken primarily in the interests of the men being trained, and not of the employers.

Mr. Lawson

Did I gather from the right hon. Gentleman recently that he was taking steps to set up special training centres to meet the recent demand in this industry?

Mr. Brown

There are opportunities for training for various specialised grades in the catering industry.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Department's policy of allowing aliens to come into this industry is reacting against the workers of this country?

Mr. Brown

I am not aware of that at all.

Mr. Lawson

I gathered from the right hon. Gentleman that special consideration was being given to this industry. Will he take steps to see that the workers are properly protected in view of the hostility that is likely to be aroused?

Mr. Brown

This is a very difficult question, as, indeed, is the whole question of retail distribution, and I am giving it my attention.

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