HC Deb 19 October 1944 vol 403 cc2526-7
64. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the urgent need of skilled building tradesmen in the rebuilding of houses, he will confer with the appropriate Ministers to secure the release of such skilled men; and whether he has an estimate of the number required at least adequately to repair all damaged houses before the onset of winter.

Mr. Willink

Yes, Sir. It is not possible to frame an estimate as requested by my hon. Friend, but the labour force is being rapidly expanded to the maximum size practicable.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the Minister aware that there is still a terrible shortage of suitable labour? Cannot he confer with the heads of the Service Departments with a view to the temporary release, at least, of efficient men to help in this way?

Mr. Willink

If the hon. Member is under an impression that I have not already conferred with the Service Departments he is under a great misapprehension; but it is remarkable that with the great shortage of skilled labour in this country at the moment the building force engaged in the London region has reached the large figure of 90,000.

Sir I. Albery

Is the Minister aware that there is still a large number of men otherwise employed who would like to return to the building trade if given the opportunity? Will he take that matter up with the Ministries concerned?

Mr. Willink

I can assure my hon. Friend that that matter is taken up in any particular cases, and if he or any other hon. Member can supply me with information about such cases I shall be most grateful.

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