§ 6. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that a number of skilled engineers who have applied for employment in several aircraft factories have been refused employment owing to lack of orders, and that others desire employment in aircraft factories but have been informed that they are not required; and, in view of the national needs, what steps are being taken to deal with this?
§ Mr. E. BrownNo, Sir. I am not aware of such cases. Any skilled engineer who is unemployed can be put in touch at once with aircraft work or other work on the Defence programme through any Employment Exchange.
§ Mr. KellyWill the right hon. Gentleman consult with the Minister for the Coordination of Defence, who has received examples and illustrations of such abuses?
§ Mr. E. SmithIf the Minister's attention is drawn to some correspondence on this subject which has been received by the hon. Member for Dumbarton Burghs (Mr. Kirkwood) and myself, will he consider it? Moreover, will he bear in mind that while these consultations are taking place, the aircraft industry could easily double its output with the labour available?
§ Mr. BrownI should be very glad to look at any correspondence which the hon. Member may show me. As he knows, we are having discussions about this matter now.