HC Deb 19 December 1944 vol 406 cc1605-6
30. Mr. Kenneth Lindsay

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what steps he has taken to improve the recruitment, training, and education of entrants to the mining industry; and whether he will consider the appointment of a qualified person to undertake this national responsibility.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Fuel and Power (Mr. Tom Smith)

The question of recruitment and training of boys for the mining industry was examined fully in 1942 by Sir John Forster's Committee, and, so far as war conditions allow, the recommendations of that Committee have been adopted. My right hon. Friend has appointed a Chief Inspector of Training, with 18 inspectors stationed in the regions, and the provisions of the Coalmining (Training and Medical Examination) Order have been in force since 1st February, 1944. As regards recruitment and education, both for the present and for after the war, my officers are working in close touch with the Ministry of Labour and National Service, the Ministry of Education and the Scottish Education Department, but it is not possible, within the ambit of a Parliamentary Reply, to describe all the measures which are being taken and planned.

Mr. Lindsay

Is my hon. Friend working with three other Ministries? Am I to take it that he welcomes the advertisement by the Mining Association for an official such as I have described, with a salary of £2,000 a year, who is also to work with these other Departments; and who will be responsible?

Mr. Smith

I think that that appointment by the Mining Association is a matter for themselves. But, as I said, consultation with other Departments for post-war plans will arise largely out of the provisions of the Education Act.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the Parliamentary Secretary not aware that there is very little value in training and educating entrants to the mining industry while it remains in its present disorganised state? Does he not see the necessity for first taking over the mines, and reorganising them?

Mr. Smith

Personally, whatever the state of the mining industry happens to be, I think that the training and education which are taking place are invaluable.