HC Deb 04 June 1946 vol 423 c1798
35. Mr. Peart

asked the Minister of Labour if he will consider the establishment of a training centre for building, operatives in the West Cumberland development area.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Yes, Sir.

67. Mr. Bossom

asked the Minister of Labour the number of trainees in the building industry for whom accommodation will be available by 1st August, 1946; and if he will give an assurance that there will be sufficient equipment and instructors to make full use of all available facilities.

Mr. Ness Edwards

I anticipate that by 1st August approximately 16,500 places will be available for the trainees in the building industry. Certain items of equipment are in short supply, but my right hon. Friend the Minister of Works, whose Department is responsible for supplying the training centres, assures me that everything possible is being done to provide the necessary supplies and equipment. As regards instructors, I do not anticipate much difficulty.

Mr. Bossom

Is the Minister aware that it is useless to try to train technical men unless you have the proper equipment with which to train them? The Government are starting their prefabricated programme, and unless they have proper equipment they cannot train men in these details.

Mr. Edwards

I quite agree, Sir.