HC Deb 28 May 1946 vol 423 cc993-4
83. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Minister of Labour which unions do not recognise as the equivalent of a period of apprenticeship a period of service in the Forces in which men have been trained in, and engaged on, technical work; and how many ex-Servicemen, who are skilled mechanics, are out of work in consequence.

The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)

I assume that the hon. Member has in mind men who whilst in the Forces have been trained in, and engaged upon, various engineering trades. As I said in a reply to the hon. Member for North Belfast (Mr. Neill), on 7th February, unions in the engineering industry have accepted certain classes of Service tradesmen as skilled craftsmen, and following the discussions to which I then referred they have accepted many additional classes of Service tradesmen. Further discussions with the two sides of industry in regard to the admission of others as craftsmen, where there is a substantial shortage, are proceeding. I regret that the figures asked for are not available.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that the journal of the R.A.F. Association has expressed grave disquiet about this matter, and will he further look into it?

Mr. Isaacs

I have not had my attention drawn to the article in question, but I can say that up to the present 39 classifications of acceptance have been agreed upon and there may be others. I must say that both sides of that and other kindred industries are cooperating very warmly with us.

Mr. N. Smith

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if his reply to the supplementary question has any theological significance?