HC Deb 29 July 1943 vol 391 cc1754-5
11. Sir Robert Young

asked the Minister of Labour whether he will instruct his officials to make known to the workers in a certain aircraft factory in the North-West area the steps to be taken in transferring them to other work, as certain workers, applying for their release to go to other positions, have been told nothing can be done as nothing has been definitely settled, and that this uncertainty is causing much complaint among the workers there; and to what extent unemployment is increasing in the adjacent districts?

Mr. Bevin

At a meeting with representatives of the workers, held on 23rd July, my officers explained the steps which were to be taken to transfer redundant workers to other work. In reply to the last part of the Question, there has been no appreciable change in the numbers registered as unemployed in the adjacent districts.

Mr. Goldie

Is my right hon. Friend aware that skilled girls who have been working on aircraft in this factory are now being put into positions as cleaners, bus conductors, and private servants? Cannot he do something to ensure that skilled workers are offered skilled work?

Mr. Bevin

I will look into that matter.

Sir R. Young

Will my right hon. Friend take steps to dissipate these tendentious reports about the increasing amount of unemployment in the district? They must be circulated with some specific purpose.

Mr. Bevin

I will look into it.

14. Sir Irving Albery

asked the Minister of Labour to what extent has the machinery for transferring workers from one district to another been improved, resulting from the special investigation recently undertaken with this object in view?

Mr. Bevin

The special investigation to which my hon. Friend refers resulted in a large number of adjustments being recommended on points of detail. These have been carried out so far as it was practicable to do so.