HC Deb 20 October 1943 vol 392 cc1367-8
28. Mr. Mander

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works the numbers employed in the building contracting industry on 1st January, 1942, and 1st January, 1943, and up to the latest available date; and to what extent in numbers and percentage it is contemplated that the employees in this industry will be directed to other industries?

Mr. Hicks

I regret that it would not be in the public interest to give the information asked for in the Question.

Mr. Mander

Is it the intention to move large numbers of workers from the contracting industry to other war industries?

Mr. Hicks

That will be decided by war necessity and need.

Mr. Mander

Are they going to be moved or not?

Mr. Hicks

It all depends.