HC Deb 22 May 1940 vol 361 cc143-4
39. Sir William Jenkins

asked the Minister of Supply what steps he has taken in the Pontardawe Rural District Council area to ascertain from the employers, employés and other interested people and local authorities, the causes of the stoppages in the various industries, which have thrown a large number of skilled workmen out of employment?

Mr. H. Morrison

I am aware of the unemployment existing in this /area and am advised that it is due to a variety of causes, some of which are outside my responsibility. The Ministry of Supply is doing its best to keep the local steel-producing and steel-finishing industries going, so far as raw materials can be made available.

Sir W. Jenkins

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that for the last 12 months expert men in the skilled industry in this area have been unemployed, and will he look into it?

Mr. Morrison

I am aware that there is a serious position and I am exceedingly sorry about it. There are, however, complications in the matter, some of which are outside my control, but I am very sympathetic with the point raised and I will do everything I can to see that the matter is put right as far as possible.

Sir W. Jenkins

Is the Minister prepared to send representatives to make inquiries on the spot? We have had collieries reopened recently as the result of investigations on the spot by representatives of the Mines Department and Lord Portal's Committee.

Mr. Morrison

I rather think we have information gathered on the spot, but I will certainly look into the matter and see whether further information is desirable.

Mr. James Griffiths

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the last war many of these plants were adapted for the production of munition supplies and that there was an abundant supply? May I ask whether he will make a special investigation into the question of these idleplants in West Wales to see if they can be converted for munitions?

Mr. Morrison

Certainly, Sir.

Mr. Thorne

Will there be any difficulty in getting the raw material wanted?

Mr. Morrison

There are certain problems connected with raw materials, which fact limits one's activities to some extent, but the solution of these problems is being actively pursued.