HC Deb 29 April 1947 vol 436 cc1700-1
8. Mr. Harrison

asked the Minister of Labour, taking into consideration the fact that a number of displaced persons are now entering this country and taking up work in various occupations, if he will consider the setting up of a properly authorised body specially to watch the interests of these workers and be prepared to advise them during the initial period of their residence in this country.

Mr. Ness Edwards

The general welfare of these workers has been made the responsibility of my Department's welfare organisation and the National Hostels Corporation who will give all the help and advice they can. The assistance offered by a number of voluntary bodies has also been welcomed.

Mr. Harrison

Does not the Minister think that the responsibility varies, and that it might, in the main, be better if it was concentrated in one responsible authority?

Mr. Ness Edwards

As the authority is now concentrated in the Ministry of Labour, I think that meets my hon. Friend's point.

Mr. Beswick

Is there any limit to the occupations to which these people may go?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I am afraid that is another question.

15. Major Tufton Beamish

asked the Minister of Labour by what date he estimates that his forecast of 4,000 displaced persons per week will be arriving in this country; and what is the total number of displaced persons that he plans to bring to this country in 1947 and 1948, respectively.

Mr. Ness Edwards

The aim is to work up, if possible, to this rate during the course of next month, but its achievement will depend upon such factors as the numbers of suitable persons volunteering who can be accommodated and absorbed into employment here. Similar factors will determine the total numbers to be brought here over a longer period.

Major Beamish

Surely, the Minister can say how many will come in during 1947? Why is it that this Government of superplanners has no plan for the employment of foreign labour this year?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I should have thought that the hon. and gallant Gentleman would have read the White Paper on the Economic Survey.

Major Beamish

Of course, I have.