20. Miss Wardasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that there has been a reduction of 509 in the number of men and apprentices employed by the North-Eastern Marine Engineering Company, Limited, of Wallsend-on-Tyne, since July last, owing to the decline in merchant shipbuilding; and, in view of the importance of these men's services to the engine-building efficiency of the country, what steps does he propose to take to deal with the situation?
§ Mr. E. BrownI understand there have been discharges from this firm, but my information is that practically all the men discharged were engaged without delay by other firms in the district.
Miss WardIn view of the importance of the engine-building industry of this country, will my right hon. Friend convey that reply to the President of the Board of Trade in order that he may expedite a statement of Government policy in this respect?
§ Mr. BrownThe hon. Lady has already made representations about this matter to the President of the Board of Trade, and no doubt my right hon. Friend will take note of her request to-day when he sees it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.