§ 16. Mr. Tinkerasked the Minister of Labour how many have gone through the training centres since the war started; what was the period when the greatest number were in training; how many are in training now; and how many centres are in operation now?
§ Mr. BevinThere are at present in operation 35 Government training centres. It would not be in the national interest to publish the rest of the information asked for by my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. TinkerHave these training centres been a success, and have those who have passed through them been found suitable employment?
§ Mr. BuchananIs the Minister aware that at the present time he is passing trainees who, because of their military age, will not be employed?
§ Sir Granville GibsonHas the Minister closed, or does he intend closing, any of these training centres, and, if so, will he state the reason?
§ Mr. BevinYes, Sir. I have closed some, and I intend closing others, because the number of recruits, owing to the shortage of man-power, is obviously 899 drying up, and because the facilities which have been created within the works for training have been extended. Wherever I can I give preference for training in works as against training in centres.
§ Mr. BuchananCan I have an answer to my Question? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when men leave the training centres they cannot get employment? Is he aware that I have sent cases to his regional office at Edinburgh?