HC Deb 07 August 1947 vol 441 cc1640-1
48. Brigadier Rayner

asked the Minister of Labour what answer he has now given to the trade union demand that the Government scheme for training adult workers for building should cease.

Mr. Isaacs

I have received no trade union demand that the Ministry's vocational training scheme for building should cease.

49. Mr. Sparks

asked the Minister of Labour if he is aware that some important engineering industries and others are dismissing all their workers over 65 years of age by reintroducing an old prewar rule; and, in view of the urgent manpower needs of the country, what action he will now take to ensure that skilled and experienced craftsmen are retained, if they so desire to be, in industry, and that their knowledge and skill shall not be lost to the nation.

Mr. Isaacs

I am not aware of the circumstances my hon. Friend mentions. I have already made it clear on several occasions that I deprecate the discharge of efficient workers on grounds of age alone. I should be surprised if many employers in these days discharge such workers on this ground, but if my hon. Friend has any cases in mind perhaps he would let me have particulars.

Mr. Sparks

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I have already sent him particulars many days ago? Will he have a look at it and see what can be done?

Mr. Isaacs

I will have a look at it, and see what I can do. But it is quite likely that by this time next week I will have powers which I am unable to use now.

Major Bruce

Will my right hon. Friend have consultations with the First Lord of the Admiralty in regard to the policy pursued in the Royal dockyards in this matter?

Mr. Isaacs

I should think that if there is any complaint about my right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty, it would be as well to put it to him.

Mr. Berry

Will my right hon. Friend draw the attention of the Civil Service and local authorities to the answer to the Question?

Mr. Isaacs

We have taken every step to draw the attention of employers to this. Many of these men have rendered excellent and valued services, and in these days it is essential that everyone who can do good work should do so.

Squadron-Leader Fleming

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the Manchester area, in his own Department of the Ministry of Labour ex-Service men are being dismissed because they are more than 60 years of age?

Mr. Isaacs

I am not aware of that, but if the hon. and gallant Member will let me have particulars, I will look into them.