HC Deb 26 November 1946 vol 430 c1387
6. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Labour what steps are being taken to provide work for dock workers at Newport, in view of the increasing number of unemployed at this port.

Mr. Isaacs

During the past three months 26 dock workers have been discharged from Newport Docks on account of redundancy. Of these, 13 registered for employment at the Ministry's local office and every effort is being made to place them in alternative work.

Mr. Freeman

Can my right hon. Friend tell us whether many others are out of work in Cardiff docks? Is he aware that while the Government have still power to direct boats to Newport not one vessel has been directed to Newport since the war terminated?

Mr. Isaacs

I must admit that I had a doubt whether the hon. Gentleman's Question was directed to that aspect of the matter; that is a point which should be -addressed to the Ministry of Transport which has to do with directing vessels.