HC Deb 03 December 1946 vol 431 cc188-9
15. Mr. Gilzean

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that of 360 plasterers employed in Edinburgh only 30 are employed on houses to rent; and what steps he proposes taking to meet this situation.

Mr. Buchanan

I am informed that there is no shortage of plasterers on the Corporation's housing schemes, on which 38 plasterers, three plasterers' apprentices and 28 plasterers' labourers are at present employed. If my hon. Friend will let me have details of any particular difficulty he has in mind, I shall be glad to look into it.

Mr. Gilzean

Will my hon. Friend indicate what steps he can take to increase the number of plasterers on Corporation jobs, particularly those for homeless people?

Mr. Buchanan

I have made inquiries of the Corporation to see if they, were short of plasterers' labourers. I am informed that the Corporation are employing the full number they require at the present time. If any shortage develops it will certainly take the necessary steps to have them supplied.

Mr. Gilzean

Is my hon. Friend aware that it is just the point of the Corporation not requiring plasterers that requires looking into?

Mr. Buchanan

I have made inquiries from every source I can. There is no sense in supplying plasterers if there is no work for them. However, if my hon. Friend has any kind of information on this matter, and will let me have it, I will sec what I can do.