HC Deb 17 February 1944 vol 397 cc314-5
3. Colonel Greenwell

asked the Minister of Labour whether the necessary supply of competent wages clerks is available at Employment Exchanges to fill the demands of industry for these persons caused by the coming into force in April of the Wage-Earners' Income Tax Act.

Mr. Bevin

The work entailed by the new Income Tax scheme will be taken into account in dealing with applications for deferment of existing staff, and the Employment Exchanges will make efforts to supply additional clerical workers when this is necessary.

Colonel Greenwell

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate the real anxiety which is felt, particularly in the heavy industries, at the lack of suitable people to discharge these functions, especially where intricate piece-rates are involved?

Mr. Bevin

Yes, Sir. I do appreciate that; and I am sure that the employers appreciate the anxiety of the Ministry of Labour to get the people required for the war.

Colonel Greenwell

Will my right hon. Friend do his best to deal with this problem at an early date?

Mr. Bevin

I will do my best, but man-power is very much stretched at present and I cannot give any pledge.