HC Deb 05 October 1939 vol 351 c2065
17. Mr. Thorne

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that electricity undertakings are increasingly discharging both fully-skilled and semiskilled men, particularly those engaged on the mains distribution of electrical transmission; whether the loss of these key men from the industry is being taken into consideration; and what does he propose to do about it?

Mr. E. Brown

I am not aware of any general tendency of this nature, but I will be very glad to inquire into any instances which the hon. Member may like to bring to my notice. I need hardly add that every effort will be made to find alternative employment for men who are being displaced.

Mr. R. C. Morrison

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the growing feeling that rationing as applied to electricity will do more harm than good, not only in regard to employment, but in regard to ordinary business?

Mr. Brown

I am not aware of that; I am only responsible so far as it concerns the unemployment register.