9. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been called to the allegation of engineering shop-stewards, that certain firms engaged in war contracts are retaining redundant numbers of qualified engineers who are urgently required and could be fully employed elsewhere; and whether he will review the basis of remuneration of such firms which appears to put a premium upon the retention of maximum possible staffs, whether adequately employed or otherwise?
§ Mr. BevinI have had a number of representations made to me of the kind referred to by my hon. Friend. In each case I am having inquiries made by my inspectors of labour supply, and, to the extent to which the circumstances warrant such action, I shall not hesitate to transfer the redundant labour to meet other urgent demands. The last part of the Question should be addressed to the Minister in charge of the Supply Department concerned.
Mr. AdamsThe Minister will no doubt be aware that the views and allegations expressed in the Question are fairly generally held; ought not a statement 978 allaying the same be made at an early date?
§ Mr. BevinI am aware that there has been a tremendous hold-up of skilled labour, and I have put every pressure upon the Supply Departments that they must fight less for themselves and must try to accommodate, to meet the urgent orders of priority, in conformity with the strategy of the war.