§ 56. Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Minister of Shipping whether he is aware that on 12th February, 1940, there were 808 men, representing 15.4 per cent. of the total men in the shipbuilding and ship-repairing industry in the Greenock area, unemployed; and what steps he proposes to take to bring these men into employment?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Labour (Mr. Assheton)I have been asked to reply. This is a matter on which my right hon. Friend is at present in consultation with the organisations of employers and workers concerned. I may mention that the number of wholly unemployed men at Greenock in skilled occupations connected with shipbuilding is under 300 and is about half the corresponding number in September.
§ Mr. GibsonCan the hon. Gentleman say whether these unemployed shipbuilders are unemployed because the berths are not available, or because berths have been transferred to other yards?
§ Mr. AsshetonThat is rather a question for the Admiralty.