§ 27. Mr. D. J. Williamsasked the Minister of Labour how many unemployed ex-miners are registered in each coalfield; and how many of them have been offered to the National Coal Board for employment in the mines.
§ The Minister of Labour (Mr. Isaacs)It is not possible to identify amongst the unemployed those who have at one time 17 or another worked in the coalmining industry. It is known, however, that a large majority of ex-miners are now unfit for underground employment in the industry. No figures are available of the numbers who have been offered to the National Coal Board for employment.
§ Mr. WilliamsIs my right hon. Friend satisfied with the present arrangements for absorbing these men into the mining industry?
§ Mr. IsaacsI admit frankly that I am not satisfied with the arrangements for their absorption at the moment, but those arrangements are being rapidly dealt with, and the difficulties overcome, and we are satisfied that shortly we shall be able able to place every man who offers himself.