HC Deb 06 November 1945 vol 415 cc1089-90
70. Captain Charles Smith

asked the Minister of Labour whether he has examined the skilled labour position in the foundry trade; whether he is satisfied that the number of younger men within the trade is sufficient to meet the future needs; and whether he proposes any steps to attract youths into the trade.

Mr. Isaacs

I assume that my hon. Friend refers to iron foundries in which there is an urgent need for labour, both skilled and unskilled. I have recently arranged for a Committee, on which both sides of the industry are represented, to consider abnormal methods of recruitment of men to meet the immediate problem. Another Committee is inquiring into conditions and amenities in iron foundries. Both sides of the industry are actively engaged in considering the recruitment of new entrants.