HC Deb 18 March 1940 vol 358 cc1630-1
39. Mr. David Adams

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the whole of the shipyards engaged upon naval or mercantile ship construction are fully equipped with the requisite labour; and, if not, from what sources is the recruitment of this labour proceeding?

The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Captain Austin Hudson)

I am informed that there is a considerable shortage of skilled labour in the shipyards. The measures to be taken to remedy this are now under discussion by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour and National Service, with the employers and trade unions of the shipbuilding industry.

Mr. Adams

Am I to understand that the great comb-out of the local authorities has not yet taken place?

Captain Hudson

I do not understand what the hon. Member means by "the great comb-out of the local authorities."

Mr. Adams

The Minister appears to be somewhat ignorant of his own particular tasks.

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member must not use language of that kind in putting a Supplementary Question.

Mr. Adams

I will put the Question in another way, Mr. Speaker, if I am allowed to.

Mr. Speaker

We will go on to the next Question.

40. Mr. Adams

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether satisfactory progress is being made in the repair of merchant vessels damaged by enemy action or through ordinary marine risks, or what special measures are proposed?

Captain Hudson

Progress is generally satisfactory. The augmentation of the supply of labour, both for merchant shipbuilding and repair work, is being pressed forward by every conceivable means by the Admiralty and the Ministry of Labour, and this remains the key to the whole position.

Mr. Adams

I take it that the Minister is aware that there is a considerable number of damaged vessels on the North-East Coast?

Captain Hudson

Yes, Sir.

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