§ 5. Mr. James Griffithsasked the Minister of Labour whether he will indicate the steps that are being taken to provide alternative work for the men displaced by the order to curtail production in the tinplate industry?
§ Mr. AsshetonAs regards the present position, I have nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Supply on 5th February. In so far as men are displaced from the tinplate industry, arrangements will be made through the Employment Exchange service to secure alternative employment for them where they are most needed in the national effort.
§ Mr. GriffithsWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that many of these men have special skill which could be used in the national interest?
§ Mr. AsshetonAt present there are many alternative opportunities of employment throughout the country. In wartime it is necessary for many of us to change our occupation and place of residence in order to play the best part we can in the national war effort, and I hope my hon. Friend will support every effort to place these men elsewhere if they can not be assured of full employment in essential work in their home area.