HC Deb 26 February 1940 vol 357 cc1725-6
20. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that during the periods of shipbuilding depression large numbers of shipyard workers of various trades secured employment with many of the larger municipalities, and that in the event of shortage of labour for shipbuilding, such workers could, under proper safeguards, be drawn upon to resume their former occupations during the war emergency; and what steps he is taking to get in touch with these men?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Assheton)

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend is engaged in discussions with the employers and trade unions of the shipbuilding industry on measures for increasing the labour supply to the extent rendered necessary by the shipbuilding programme. The hon. Member's suggestion will be borne in mind in this connection.

Mr. R. Gibson

Will the Minister keep in mind the fact that, in the case of Greenock, it would not be necessary to take former shipbuilding workers from municipal employment as there are already unemployed shipbuilding workers in Greenock?

Mr. Assheton

That is being borne in mind.